Oral question asked in the House of Commons, by James Gray (Conservative). It was answered on Monday, 27 March 2006 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Royal Regiment of Scotland (Kilts)

Question: I am astonished by the Minister's last remark. My understanding is that the firm of John Noble and Co., in Peebles, has made the kilt for the British Army in Scotland since the late 18th century, and that the contract is for 5,000 kilts at a cost of £300,000. The Minister must appreciate that the Scottish soldier's kilt has always been made in Scotland. It is made there now by John Noble and Co., and surely the Minister can see that both its weaving and manufacture should continue to be done in Scotland.

Answer: On a point of accuracy, Robert Noble and Co. makes the tartan, the prime contractor is a Yorkshire-based company and a company in Alexandria manufactures the kilts. The contract, which is a £1 million contract for 5,000 kilts, will go out to tender. There will be a repeat contract for 300 kilts each year. The material in question is not being changed; it is already in use. We are simply standardising the use of a material that used to apply only to certain officers throughout all the ranks.

Secondary information

Type: Oral question
Reference: 444 c527
Session: 2005-06
Oral question type: Supplementary
Chamber / Committee: House of Commons chamber
Subjects: Armed forces Army Scotland Uniforms Royal Regiment of Scotland Tartans
Link: View this Oral question on www.publications.parliament.uk