What's happened
The cost of bearskin caps worn by the King's Guards has surged by 30% to over £2,000 each, prompting calls from PETA to switch to faux fur. The Ministry of Defense remains open to alternatives but cites durability concerns. The caps, made from black bear fur, have faced ethical scrutiny for years.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to BBC News, the Ministry of Defense stated, "We are open to exploring faux fur alternatives if they pass the necessary requirements." This reflects a willingness to adapt, although no suitable alternatives have been found yet. The Independent highlights PETA's call to action, urging the MOD to stop using taxpayer money on real fur, emphasizing the ethical implications of the bear hunting industry. Elisa Allen from PETA stated, "Stop wasting taxpayer pounds on caps made from slaughtered wildlife and switch to faux fur today." This ongoing debate illustrates the tension between tradition and evolving ethical standards in society.
How we got here
The bearskin caps, traditionally worn by the King's Guards, have been a subject of controversy due to their sourcing from black bears hunted in Canada. PETA has campaigned for over two decades against their use, citing ethical concerns and the rising costs associated with them.
More on these topics
-
Buckingham Palace is the London residence and administrative headquarters of the monarch of the United Kingdom. Located in the City of Westminster, the palace is often at the centre of state occasions and royal hospitality.
-
Charles, Prince of Wales is the heir apparent to the British throne as the eldest child of Queen Elizabeth II. He has been Duke of Cornwall and Duke of Rothesay since 1952, and he is the oldest and longest-serving heir apparent in British history.
-
Elizabeth II is the queen of the United Kingdom and the other Commonwealth realms. She was born in London as the first child of the Duke and Duchess of York, later King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, and she was educated privately at home.