Cost of King's Guard Bearskin Caps Soars 30% Amidst Ethical Debate

Animal rights activists urge switch to faux fur as Ministry of Defence cites durability concerns and rising costs.

The price of bearskin caps worn by the King's Guard has increased from £1,560 in 2022 to £2,040 in 2023, a 30% rise.
PETA has criticized the Ministry of Defence for spending over £1 million on these caps in the past decade, calling for a switch to faux fur.
The Ministry of Defence stated that no faux fur alternatives have yet met the necessary safety and durability requirements.
The caps are made from the fur of black bears hunted in Canada, which has drawn significant criticism from animal rights groups.
Labour, now in government, had previously called for a review of alternative materials for the caps, emphasizing the need for traditions to evolve.