Written question asked by Baroness Gale (Labour) on Thursday, 24 September 2020, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 8 October 2020. It was answered by Lord McFall of Alcluith (Non-affiliated) on Monday, 5 October 2020 on behalf of the Senior Deputy Speaker (HL).

House of Lords: Furs

Question: To ask the Senior Deputy Speaker what plans there are to replace fur used in House of Lords robes with a fur substitute.

Answer: Members may use their own robes for ceremonial occasions or hire them from outside suppliers who offer a choice of real or artificial fur. The House has a small stock of robes which members can borrow for occasions such as introduction and prorogation ceremonies. These robes have been gifted to the House over many years by former members and there is a choice of real or artificial fur. The House has no plans to purchase new robes, nor to replace any real fur in this existing stock.

Secondary information