Question to the Ministry of Defence:

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.

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.