Oz Conservative MP proposes topless beach ban to protect Muslims, Asians

Sydney, December 30 (ANI): Australia's Conservative MP Fred Nile wants topless bathing banned in New South Wales (NSW) in order to shield Sydney's Muslim and Asian communities.

The Reverend Nile claimed that "Australia's reputation as a conservative but culturally inclusive society was at risk of erosion by more liberal overseas visitors," reports The Sydney Morning Herald.

He said: "Our beaches should be a place where no one is offended, whether it's their religious or cultural views.

"If they've come from a Middle Eastern or Asian country where women never go topless - in fact they usually wear a lot of clothing - I think it's important to respect all the different cultures that make up Australia."

However, acting Premier Carmel Tebbutt and the NSW Opposition Leader, Barry O'Farrell, both reacted that topless bathing was a matter of concern for local councils, not state governments.

O'Farrell added: "This is a matter for local councils to deliberate, at a time when state parliament should be focusing on roads, public transport, hospitals and education.

"It doesn't rate on the list of important matters for the Parliament of NSW." (ANI)