England: Barristers’ wigs poised to become optional
![England: Barristers' wigs poised to become optional](https://www.irishlegal.com/uploads/RCJ-1000px.jpg)
Courts in England and Wales could make wearing wigs optional for barristers.
The judiciary is poised to update its court dress code in the wake of complaints by some barristers that headpieces discriminate againt people with Afro-Caribbean hair.
The Bar Council has proposed changes that could be made this autumn. Leslie Thomas KC, a professor of law at Gresham College, said wigs were a “ridiculous costume” that represent a “culturally insensitive climate”.
He said: “The wigs certainly should go. There isn’t any place in a modern society for barristers to be wearing 17th century fashion.”
He also called for wing collars, bands and collarettes to be scrapped. He said barristers should wear a black gown over businesswear – which dates from the 19th century.
He added: “I think a dress code like that would bring the profession into the 21st century.”
The option of wearing a wig would be similar to the exemption that already exists for Sikh and Muslim barristers.
A Bar Council spokesman said: “Following questions from barristers about wigs and hair discrimination, the Bar Council set up a working group to consider court dress.
“The findings are currently being discussed with the judiciary as part of our regular dialogue on equality and diversity matters.”