Richard,
         Yes, I realize that the laws in the UK are quite different from those here in the USA, even though our system evolved from English Common Law. However, talking strictly within the context of our system, this case would be akin to one African American using the "N" word to another member of his own race. It is quite different if that same word would be used by a Caucasian. In one case it is overt bigotry and in the other case not so.

                                                SOL