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Los Angeles set to become largest US city to ban the sale of fur

Protesters for animal rights group PETA supporting Tuesday's vote to ban fur sales: AP
Protesters for animal rights group PETA supporting Tuesday's vote to ban fur sales: AP

Los Angeles is on track to become the largest US city to ban the sale of fur sparking hope among animal rights groups for "the end of the barbaric fur industry".

Los Angeles City Council voted unanimously on Tuesday to outlaw the trade of fur clothes and accessories, months after San Francisco voted for a similar ban in March.

The Los Angeles City Attorney will now draw up an order for approval by the City Council, which would then be signed by Mayor Eric Garcetti.

Animal rights groups welcomed the proposed legislation, which will be phased in two years after it passes into law.

"Los Angeles’ historic move to ban fur sales today is likely to herald the end of the barbaric fur industry for good," Marilyn Kroplick, president of In Defence of Animals, said in a statement.

"This major city sets global fashion and culture trends, and has sent a message to the world that animals should not be abused for clothing."

Councilman Paul Koretz, left, said he hoped the proposed ban would be an example to other cities worldwide (AP)
Councilman Paul Koretz, left, said he hoped the proposed ban would be an example to other cities worldwide (AP)

It comes amid a growing trend among luxury designers such as Burberry and Gucci of shunning the use of animal fur, and follows the first-ever fur-free London Fashion Week.

Councilman Paul Koretz said the ban was intended as an example he hoped other cities would follow worldwide.

"Los Angeles is one of the fashion capitals of the world, and if we can do it here, we can do it anywhere and hopefully we will be an example for the rest of the country and the rest of the world," said Mr Koretz said at a news conference.

"We're not blazing a new trail here. San Francisco's done it, West Hollywood's done it, but never a city of our size, so we hope that New York City and Chicago and Miami are all watching."

The proposed law will not apply to used fur products and allows for some exceptions, including items used for religious reasons such as hats worn by Hasidic Jews for some religious events.