Israel may have to cope with the challenge of a new exodus - one moving away from the country rather than to it.

Agriculture Minister Uri Ariel has floated the idea of deporting thousands of stray cats to any country willing to accept the four-legged refugees.

In the past, Israel has tried to restrict the growth of stray animals by neutering them.

Mr Ariel not only thinks this practice cruel but also that it could transgress the biblical command for creatures to go forth and multiply.

The minister has reportedly now shelved his scheme. Some people were having kittens over it.