The Royal Navy is facing criticism after plans emerged to spend up to £200,000 redesigning uniforms for female sailors due to 'inappropriately placed' buttons. An internal document seen by The Times indicates the No 1 jacket, worn by the Princess Royal at ceremonial events, will be altered 'at the Crown's expense', meaning taxpayers will bear the cost.
The current uniform features four rows of two buttons, with the highest set at breast level. The new design will reposition all eight buttons lower down. A Royal Navy temporary memorandum sent to the fleet stated: 'The position of the top two 'decorative' buttons on the older design of the female officer's No 1 jacket are deemed to be inappropriately placed.'
A Royal Navy spokesperson defended the move, saying: 'The Navy is both a modern organisation, which continuously adapts and is also hugely proud of our history. This change, which will be brought in over several years, addresses issues raised by serving personnel regarding the fit of female officers' jackets, and is a positive step for women in the Navy while balancing operational and financial factors. The cost of the new jacket will be offset by a reduction in the number of uniforms issued.'
According to The Times, more than 950 serving female officers will be issued the new uniform in the coming year. Non-commissioned officers, such as petty officers and warrant officers, who have only three rows of buttons, are not affected.
