GARY TEMPLAR FROM KEYNSHAM RETURNS TO DEFENCE MINISTRY JOB DESPITE PAEDOPHILE CONVICTION IN BRISTOL

In a move that has sparked significant controversy and outrage among staff members, Gary Templar, a 32-year-old man from Keynsham, has been reinstated to his position within the Ministry of Defence at the Defence Procurement Agency located in Abbey Wood, Bristol. This decision has ignited strong protests from colleagues who are deeply unsettled by his return to the workplace.

Templar’s past includes a conviction for indecently assaulting an eight-year-old girl. The incident involved him teaching her how to kiss properly as he was tucking her into bed, an act that has left a lasting stain on his record. The assault occurred over a decade ago, and at the time, Templar was not incarcerated but was instead ordered to undertake community rehabilitation. His suspension from his role with the Ministry of Defence Guard Service was in place during the legal proceedings.

Despite the gravity of his conviction, the authorities at the Defence Procurement Agency in Abbey Wood have decided to allow Templar to return to work, a decision that has caused considerable unrest among his colleagues. Seven staff members have formally expressed their disapproval by protesting to both management and Members of Parliament. The site at Abbey Wood is notably sensitive, as it includes a nursery facility that caters to approximately 100 children, and the security duties performed by guards involve controlling access to the premises, including locking and unlocking doors.

One worker, identified only as Bob, aged 40, voiced his disbelief and concern over the decision. He stated, “We find it incredible the MoD have brought this man back. Feelings are running high. Ninety per cent of staff are working with him but not talking to him. We can be called down to the nursery for any kind of emergency.”

Templar, who is a father of one, committed his offence in Keynsham, Somerset, while caring for the young girl, who was not related to him. The incident took place twelve years ago, during which he had often put the girl to bed and read her stories. On one particular occasion, he offered to demonstrate how to perform a “proper kiss,” an act that led to his conviction.

In response to the backlash, a spokesperson for the Defence Procurement Agency stated, “This man has been dealt with by the courts, and his reassimilation into the workplace was considered in accordance with employment law. His normal duties will not involve contact with children or proximity to the nursery.” The decision to reinstate Templar has thus become a focal point of debate, raising questions about the balance between rehabilitation and public safety in sensitive environments.