Historic Bearskin Caps Face Rising Costs and Ethical Scrutiny
Driven by a remarkable 30% price rise in only one year, the cost of the famous bearskin hats worn by the King’s Guard outside Buckingham Palace has skyrocketed to nearly £2,000 apiece. Apart from its financial consequences, this increase has also sparked ethical arguments over their usage. People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) and other animal welfare organizations are grabbing this chance to advocate a change to synthetic fur substitutes.
Why Are the Costs of Bearskin Caps Escalating?
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) credits changes in the “contractual arrangements” for these ceremonial clothing for the rise in the cost of bearskin hats, which today stands at £2,040 per cap. Made historically from black bear fur taken from Canada, the hats have become a costly burden; £1 million has been spent on replacements over past years. The MoD bought 24 fresh caps in 2023 alone, underlining a significant continuous cost.
Peta has attacked this expenditure, contending that actual fur is obsolete and wasteful. A Peta spokesman said:
“Transitioning to fake fur is even more necessary given these caps’ increasing prices. It’s time to stop bearing the ethical and financial costs of utilizing actual bear fur.
What Are the Ethical Arguments Against Real Fur?
Animal welfare advocates have long objected to the ceremonial use of actual fur. Critics contend that since each cap needs the fur from a whole black bear, acquiring bear fur is inhumane. Peta has also expressed worries about hunting tactics used in Canada, claiming that some techniques, like crossbows, can inflict the animal’s great agony over an extended period.
Notwithstanding these objections, the MoD contends that the fur comes from legitimate, controlled hunts and claims that bears are not shot mainly for the hats. Still, the ethical argument generates robust responses.
How Is the MoD Responding to Calls for Faux Fur?
The MoD is ready to investigate fake fur substitutes but is still wary. The department has established rigorous standards for any new materials, including water absorption, appearance, and durability. No synthetic alternative has sufficiently satisfied these criteria to replace genuine fur.
A MoD spokesperson noted:
“We are dedicated to making sure any substitute material satisfies our exacting performance and safety standards. No fake fur has thus far completely satisfied these criteria.”
What Role Has Political Pressure Played in This Debate?
Political leaders have joined the conversation. Emphasizing the importance of modernizing customs, Labour’s then-shadow military minister had already argued for reconsidering the use of actual fur. Now that Labour is in power, this demand for change is gathering momentum, which could pressure the MoD to give faux fur options more serious thought.
What Impact Has the Royal Family Had on the Issue?
The royal family’s position has also shaped the public view. A royal family member recently said they would only buy fake fur clothing, which might change opinions on the ceremonial use of genuine fur. Though the MoD decides on the King’s Guard’s uniforms, the royal family’s stance on ethical fashion might strengthen calls for reform.
What Does the Future Hold for the Bearskin Caps?
As the argument over the bearskin caps goes on, financial and ethical forces are causing a rethink of their use. Although advocates contend that actual fur preserves the traditional look and durability needed for ceremonial events, the growing expenses and ethical issues call for a contemporary, compassionate substitute. The MoD’s eagerness to explore new materials suggests that the future of these ancient caps might shortly show a mix between legacy and modern ideals.
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