MPs will be able to wear Bermuda shorts in Parliament after the House of Assembly voted early Saturday morning to relax the dress code.

Male MPs will also be able to wear Safari suits and collarless Nehru suits, and women will for the first time be entitled to dress in trouser suits.

The United Bermuda Party agreed with allowing Bermuda shorts but opposed allowing Safari suits and Nehru suits.

Premier Jennifer Smith said allowing male MPs to wear the Island's national dress in Parliament would not diminish the dignity of the House.

She told MPs that it was a practical move and that Bermuda shorts were acceptable as business dress on the Island.

She said: "People do tend to judge on first impressions and how they are dressed. But ease of comfort and practicality rule fashion; form follows fashion.

"It is a very simple step that what is acceptable in this country is acceptable in this place.'' St. George's North Progressive Labour Party MP Delaey Robinson, who has flouted the House rules by wearing a Nehru suit, said it was extraordinary that Bermuda was "hung up'' on this issue.

He said: "European traditionalists seem to act with alarm when another tradition comes before them.

"There is no way I can come to this House representing my people in European dress.'' More from the House on Page 4 and 8