Men who wear kilts in Great Britain may soon by subject to new legal regulations designed to protect endangered animals whose fur is frequently used for the “sporran” piece.

The BBC reports:

Kilt wearers could face prosecution if they do not have a licence for their sporran under new legislation which has been introduced in Scotland.

The laws are designed to protect endangered species like badgers and otters, whose fur used to be favoured by sporran makers.

The legislation applies to animals killed after 1994.

Applicants must prove that the animal was killed lawfully before they will be able to get a licence.

The conservation regulations were designed to close a number of loopholes and bring Scotland into line with other EU members.

It’s interesting that the law will require an individual to prove affirmatively that an animal was killed lawfully, rather than placing the burden of regulation on sellers of the items or manufacturers.

It also seems like the law would be difficult to enforce.

Still, what is most noteworthy to me about this story is the way that things associated with “tradition” in the United Kingdom (whether they actually represent a “real” cultural tradition is another point entirely) are being chipped away. Although the UK clings strongly to many particular traditions that are not in line with the EU (most notably retaining its currency), there is a general attempt, of which this story is one specific example, to comply with ever more rules and regulations originating in Europe.

The complete story from BBC News: “Sporran wearers may need licence”