Singing from the same hymn sheet may upset atheists

Town hall staff have been banned from using the phrase 'singing from the same hymn sheet' because it could upset atheists.

Salisbury council has told employees that the religious connotations of the saying, which has been in common parlance for centuries, can offend non-believers.

The same authority has also instructed officials not to use the phrase 'colour blind' but instead to refer to a person as having 'colour visual impairment'.

The advice from Salisbury council says: "Avoid office and council jargon wherever possible, including phrases such as 'moving forward' and 'singing from the same hymn sheet'.

Say what you mean, so instead of 'moving forward' try 'in the future'. Not everyone understand these phrases – some can actually cause offence (what would an atheist want with your hymn sheet?)."

Other councils have instructed staff to be careful about using the word 'black' as well as 'British', because they could upset people, while the phrase 'West Indian' should also be avoided.