A KENT MP is urging people to boycott British Airways in a row over the wearing of a cross necklace by an airline employee.

Maidstone and Weald MP Ann Widdecombe has given her full backing to check-in worker Nadia Eweida, 55, who claims she was effectively “forced” to take unpaid leave after refusing to conceal the symbol.

Miss Widdecombe has accused the airline of “religious discrimination”.

The MP said: “I think it’s appalling.”

British Airways has denied it has banned the wearing of crosses, saying its uniform policy states that such items can be worn underneath an employee’s uniform.

But Miss Widdecombe has accused the airline of “double standards”.

She said: “Muslim women can wear a headscarf and Sikhs can wear a turban. Both are very visible and I have no problem with that. But this woman should not have to hide her cross.”

Miss Widdecombe said wherever possible she would now boycott BA flights and urged other Christians and supporters to do the same.

BA said items such as turbans and bangles could be worn as it was impractical for staff to conceal them.