Campaign reply - Bearskin Caps

 

Thank you for your email and raising the important issue of the Queen’s Guards’ caps with me.

Unfortunately, I was not able to attend the debate on Monday 11^th July due to other parliamentary business I had to attend. However, I take note of your concerns regarding the use of bearskins.

This country has a proud record of supporting animal conservation and welfare. It is why the Government is currently introducing the Animal Welfare (Kept Animals) Bill to improve welfare standards.

It is also for this reason that the government has replaced animal skins and furs with faux materials in the past, such as the busby caps of the Royal Horse Artillery. As a result, if there are man-made alternatives to replace natural fur items which provide a suitable, affordable and sustainable alternative to bearskin, the Ministry of defence (MoD) will use them.

The bearskin caps are an iconic emblem of our country and a lasting reminder of the famous victory at the battle of Waterloo in 1815. This is when the 1^st Regiment of Foot Guards defeated Napoleon’s Grenadiers and, in doing so, helped to establish the circumstances in which the UK would remain at peace with the European powers for 40 years and with those of western Europe for a century. However, I agree that if there is a viable alternative that reflects this history while preventing the use of animal skin, we should embrace it.

Yet, thus far, the government is unsighted on the latest test results and evidence that faux fur can be made to work and can meet the five criteria set out by the MoD. If the government has that evidence, the change will be made, but it is in the hands of others. The government is willing to receive any information.

With regards to your concerns on animal cruelty, please be assured that the current bear pelts used for the Queen’s Guards’ ceremonial caps are sourced exclusively from Canada precisely because it is a regulated market and a declared party to the convention on international trade in endangered species of wild fauna and flora. A CITES permit is required for the export of pelts from Canada to the United Kingdom. Provincial, territorial, federal and international laws also provide strict trade regulations to protect against unlawful trade in black bears, both within Canada and internationally. The pelts required are by-products of legal and licensed hunts, which are authorised in Canada by provincial and territorial governments.

The Government is also very sparing in the acquisitions that are made. Individual soldiers do not possess their own hats; they are cared for and shared within the Household Division. Despite their constant use, every effort is made to carefully prolong the longevity of each ceremonial cap.

I will ensure that if any evidence about the faux fur is shared, it will be examined carefully and implemented swiftly if it meets the criteria and provides a suitable, affordable and sustainable alternative to bearskin. I hope this email addresses your concerns.