Oz retailers body back call for hijab ban

Melbourne, Jan.15 (ANI): The National Retailers Association has backed a radio announcer's call for a ban on Islamic hijabs.

The peak national body has called for all hijabs, helmets and hoodies to be banned in shops and banks for security purposes.

Brisbane radio presenter Michael Smith angered listeners after calling for Muslim women who wear a hijab to be fined.

The 4BC drive presenter said on Wednesday that wearing the hijab or burka posed a security risk because it obscured the face, making it difficult to identify the wearer in the instance of a crime.

Smith said it should be made an offence.

Retailers' association executive director Scott Driscoll said it had been a long accepted practice to require customers to remove helmets and other identity obscuring headwear when entering a shop or bank.

Islamic Council of Queensland president Suliman Sabdia said he was disappointed by Smith's remarks.

"He has every right to say it but we do say he displays intolerance, and a complete lack of understanding of the Muslim code of conduct,'' the Daily Telegraph quoted Sabdia, as saying. (ANI)