New dress code may ban leather from Knesset

MK Ahmad Tibi (United Arab List-Ta'al) proposed Tuesday that the Knesset ban MKs from wearing leather garments within its walls.

Tibi proposed the act as part of the new code of ethics the Knesset wishes to issue its members.

"This is a moral act that carries with it an important public message," said Tibi at the meeting held by the code of ethics committee, which discussed the proper dress code for MKs.

"If my motion is carried, MKs would not be able to come to the Knesset wearing leather coats or shoes, or sporting clothes with fur.

"This is common in many workplaces around the world," said Tibi. "I was the one that introduced the motion demanding increased penalties for those abusing animals… this continues that motion.

"If this motion fails, I think the MKs themselves should pledge to refrain from coming to the Knesset wearing leather clothing," he said.

To wear or not to wear

The committee also discussed whether or not MKs should be allowed to enter the Knesset wearing sandals.

MK Uri Ariel (National Union), who's known for wearing his sandals to the Knesset all year round, thinks MKs should be allowed to sport the footwear of their choice.

"If I can go to shul in my sandals there's no reason I can't wear them to the Knesset," he said.

"I'm all for a proper dress code in the Knesset, the question is what is the proper dress code," he added.

"Sandals are not an unusual thing to wear in Israel, so I think they should be allowed in the dress code."