Soldiers can have beards for the first time in 100 years

General Sir Patrick Sanders took the decision that ‘the appearance policy will change’ following a survey of both serving and reservist troops – MoD

Soldiers will be allowed to grow beards after the Army overturned a 100-year ban on facial hair, The Telegraph can reveal.

The King, who is Commander in Chief, signed off on the decision on Thursday to allow both officers and soldiers to wear beards.

The new policy will come into effect on Friday so that soldiers on Easter leave have time to grow a beard while away from work, The Telegraph understands.

Following a review of the Army’s policy on appearances and beards, General Sir Patrick Sanders, the head of the Army, took the decision that “the appearance policy will change” after a survey of both serving and reservist troops.

The findings showed an “overwhelming majority” felt the Army needed to change its policy and allow soldiers to wear beards.

It comes after Grant Shapps, the Defence Secretary, said the beard ban was “ludicrous” when discussing the Army’s recruitment crisis.

The move will bring the Army into line with the RAF and Royal Navy who already permit full beards.

However, troops have been told that conditions mean beards have to be “neat” as standards within the Army must not drop.

It was also stressed to personnel that the decision was not to be seen as a “free for all” and that any beards grown will be reviewed to ensure they are in line with regulations.

It is thought the original beard ban was introduced to ensure uniformity in appearance.

However, as the Army has struggled with recruitment, it has looked into ways to promote inclusivity and encourage men with beards to sign up.

Senior defence sources told The Telegraph there would be “dinosaurs” who will not agree with the decision.

They added: “Someone will say gas masks won’t fit, but if there’s a chemical threat then people will shave.”

In a video released to personnel confirming the decision, Paul Carney, the Army Sergeant Major, said: “Our standards can’t drop. The Army has a reputation for professionalism and a smart turnout, with our allies and with the British public.

“We must maintain and protect that reputation by continuing to look our best.”

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