Nudists outraged as naked sunbathing is banned on Cadiz beaches
Friday, August 14, 2009 @ 2:52 PM
Exhibitionists hoping for an all-over tan could face hefty fines for stripping off on beaches in Cadiz, Spain.
The popular holiday resort's Town Hall has decided it wants no more naked bodies on the beach and holidaymakers could now face a fine of up to 750 euros for revealing all.
However, the decision has been slammed by outraged members of the public and the Spanish Naturist Federation who have declared the ruling illegal and unconstitutional.
The vague law has raised questions about whether 'nudism' includes topless sunbathing or if parents would be fined for a naked baby on the beach, as the person responsible for a minor.
In general many bathers questioned said they didn't have a problem with those that wish to frolic about in their birthday suit and disagree with the wholesale banning of the practice.
However, suggestions were made that designated nudist beaches should be assigned in the area.
Stripping off on the beach has been considered legal in Spain for the last two decades and the Naturist Federation claims that the fines could damage the tourism market in the area, as many nudists come from around Europe to enjoy this freedom.
The Spanish Tourist Board estimates that around 1.5million tourists visit Spain every summer with the express aim of practicing naturism.
But Cadiz Town Hall has defended its decision by saying that the beaches are being taken over by nudists, putting off families who use them.
Local police have been passing the message on to sunbathers, but so far no one has been given a fine.
Source: The Daily Mail