GCHQ right to reject job application of devoutly religious chess master

Mrs Justice Simler said GCHQ had justifiable security concerns about computer forensics specialist Charles Storey, 44, which related in part to his religious convictions.

The judge added the beliefs were of “no concern” taken alone but that GCHQ could justifiably conclude that “the effect those beliefs might have on his behaviour and judgment in the workplace” brought up issues of national security.

Mr Storey, a world chess federation grand master told interviewers that “without doubt, if required to choose between his loyalty to his country and his loyalty to God, choose his loyalty to God whatever the outcome”.

His medical records also showed he experienced a “drug induced psychosis” at the age of 20 in 1991 and was admitted for taking drugs for nine months – though he contended he was now fit and well.

In 2009 he was rejected by GCHQ, who said he was “not a suitable candidate”.

He claimed he had been the subject of religious and disability discrimination.

A 2013 employment tribunal, partly held in secret, concluded GCHQ were right to reject Mr Storey’s application – citing his psychotic episode and religious beliefs.

However, it also said these were not the overriding reason for GCHQ refusing security clearance.

While GCHQ has a policy that it will rarely consider job applicants who have suffered psychotic illness or bipolar disorder the tribunal said this “did not amount to a blanket ban” but ruled the chess grandmaster had not suffered unfavourable treatment.

The EAT confirmed the decision.

He has now vowed to take his case to Strasbourg, saying: “The whole process has been ridiculous. I’ve been fighting this for seven years and the next stage is Europe”.