No leather, no work, say Chrysler bosses

17/10/2008

A Chrysler memo sent out to employees has angered animal rights activists. Sent out to workers at the company’s car factory, it states that employees must wear shoes or boots made from “solid leather”. It is thought this was issued in response to claims that workers were putting themselves at risk by wearing canvas and plastic shoes. If workers refuse to comply, the memo states that they will be sent home without pay.

According to animal rights campaigners, some workers refuse to wear leather shoes on religious or ethical grounds, so it claims the order is discriminatory. However, a company spokesperson said that the rule was all about safety and, therefore, was in the best interests of the employee.