Zoidberg said:
When you say "basically", does that mean I could get kicked out of training until A)It's gone or B)It's covered up?
I don't want to have put in all that time and effort into the selection only to be told I can't start training because of a 1"x3" blob on my leg.
Yep,
after joining the following rules apply:
Further Guidance on Tattoos
Service personnel must project the Service in a positive light and not to bring the Service into disrepute. Like any other UK employer whose uniformed personnel are expected to maintain public confidence, the Service sets policy on the appearance in uniform of its men and women, and this includes the nature, extent and location of tattoos.
Tattoos which are visible when No 1 uniform (RM Blues) is being worn, whether because they extend beyond the collar or cuff, or because they are being worn on the face, neck or hands, are not acceptable, are contrary to current regulations and must not be acquired. (Naval Officer and Senior Rate tropical No1 uniform do expose forearms and lower upper arms. Regulations permit the exposure of tattoos in these areas, provided they conform to the rules governing all tattoos wherever they may be.)
Tattoos are not acceptable if they are judged by the Commanding Officer, or at the recruiting stage the Recruiting Officer, to be reasonably likely to:
a. Undermine the authority or dignity of the Service or bring discredit to the Service.
b. Offend others or invite provocation, for example because they are obscene, lewd, crude, racist, sexist, homophobic, or intimidating.
c. Affect the employability of the wearer, for example by making it unacceptable for that person to parade or stand guard in public, or, depending on Branch/Specialisation and career profile, to engage on special operations.
In addition, visible tattoos must not be garish or numerous or particularly prominent (which will depend on its size and location). Commanding Officers may order personnel with tattoos which contravene the provisions above, but which are not visible in No1 uniform, to cover them up.
Service Personnel acquiring tattoos which contravene the Service policy will be invited to have their tattoos removed at their own expense. Acquisition of tattoos in contravention of the regulations and policy will result in disciplinary action and subsequent failure to remove tattoos is most likely to result in administrative discharge after an appropriate period on warning