Petition · past parliament
Bring the RAF and Navy Tattoo policy in line with the revised Army policy.
Closed
286 signatures
What the petition asks
The British Army on 1 August 2014 brought in a revised Tattoo policy which allows for body art to be displayed on hands and rear of the neck. The Army and Capita, who assisted with the revised policy, agree that tattoos do not inhibit operational functionality or compromise the Army's image.
New MoD figures show the three services are short of nearly 6,400 trained personnel, more than 4,000 of them soldiers.
Year 13/14 The Army rejected 336 applications because of offensive or inappropriately placed tattoos, as well as piercings.
Elizabeth Lee from Capita said: 'Tattoos have become increasingly acceptable and common in society, including among potential recruits considering a career in the Army. 'Greater flexibility over tattoos on the neck or hands will remove a barrier for a number of people currently interested in applying for a job in the Army, without compromising its image as a professional force.'
Year 13/14 The Army rejected 336 applications because of offensive or inappropriately placed tattoos, as well as piercings.
Elizabeth Lee from Capita said: 'Tattoos have become increasingly acceptable and common in society, including among potential recruits considering a career in the Army. 'Greater flexibility over tattoos on the neck or hands will remove a barrier for a number of people currently interested in applying for a job in the Army, without compromising its image as a professional force.'
Timeline
| 8 Mar 2016 | Petition opened for signatures |
| 8 Sep 2016 | Closed to new signatures |
Key facts
Signatures
286
Status
Closed
Opened
8 Mar 2016
Closed
8 Sep 2016
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Source: the official petition page. Last checked 15 Jul 2026.