Written question asked by Martyn Day (Scottish National Party) on Wednesday, 1 December 2021, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Friday, 3 December 2021. It was answered by Jeremy Quin (Conservative) on Wednesday, 8 December 2021 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Queen's Guards: Uniforms

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment his Department has made of the quality of the new faux bear fur that has been manufactured as an alternative to real bear fur to make the Queen’s Guard’s caps; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: Our analysis of recent tests conducted on a fake fur fabric commissioned by PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals), showed it met one of the five requirements to be considered as a viable alternative for ceremonial caps. Whilst it met the basic standard for water absorption, it showed unacceptable rates of water shedding and performed poorly on the visual assessment. As the man-made fur sadly didn't meet the standards required for a ceremonial cap which is worn throughout the year and in all weathers, the Ministry of Defence has no plans to take this man-made fabric forward.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 85327
Session: 2021-22
Related items: Queen's Guards: Uniforms
Monday, 21 February 2022
Written questions
House of Commons; Queen's Guards: Uniforms
Monday, 21 February 2022
Written questions
House of Commons; Queen's Guards: Uniforms
Thursday, 24 February 2022
Written questions
House of Commons; Queen's Guards: Uniforms
Friday, 25 February 2022
Written questions
House of Commons; Queen's Guards: Uniforms
Friday, 25 February 2022
Written questions
House of Commons
Subjects: Furs Uniforms King's guards
Link: View this Written question on www.parliament.uk