London, Jul 25 (IANS): A top police official in Britain has asked for a law to allow policemen to be able to display their tattoos as a "good way to start communication" with the public.

Kent Police Federation Chairman Ian Pointon said body art could be an "icebreaker", The Sun reported.

"It comes down to personal taste and a generational gap in attitudes. We've got to get over this. The days of tattoos being stigmatised should be over."

"There have been no complaints from the public about officers' tattoos. They can actually be a good way to start a line of communication," he said.

Police officers in England and Wales are barred from having tattoos. Body and facial piercings are also banned.

A Scotland Yard statement said: "Tattoos on the face or visible above the collar aren't permitted."

"Anyone who has a tattoo that could be construed as being offensive to any religion or belief, or is in any way discriminatory, violent or intimidating, will not be accepted to join."

"An existing member of staff who gets themselves tattooed in this way may become subject to disciplinary proceedings."