Overview

• The British Army has overturned a century-old ban on facial hair, allowing soldiers to grow beards.
• The decision, approved by the King, is effective immediately, giving soldiers time to grow beards over the Easter break.
• Beards must be neat, properly groomed, and adhere to specific length requirements to maintain Army standards.
• The policy change follows a survey showing strong support among troops for the ability to wear beards, amidst efforts to boost recruitment.
• Defence Secretary Grant Shapps called the previous ban 'ludicrous' and advocated for the policy review to modernize the Army.