In the UK, soldiers have been allowed to grow beards - the army has lifted a 100-year ban on facial hair. This is reported by The Telegraph, UNN reports.
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It is noted that the king, who is the commander-in-chief, signed a decision on Thursday, March 28, to allow both officers and soldiers to wear beards.
The new policy will come into effect on March 29. Soldiers on Easter leave will have time to grow a beard while off duty, The Telegraph reports.
Following a review of the army's appearance and beard policy, General Sir Patrick Sanders, the head of the army, decided that "the appearance policy will change" after a survey of serving and reserve soldiers.
The findings showed that an "overwhelming majority" believes that the army should change its policy and allow soldiers to wear beards.
This comes after Grant Shapps, the Secretary of Defense, said that the beard ban is "ridiculous" when discussing the military's recruitment crisis.
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The move will bring the army in line with the Royal Air Force and Royal Navy, which already allow full beards.
However, servicemen were told that the conditions meant that beards had to be "neat" because standards in the army should not be lowered.
It is believed that the original ban on beards was introduced to ensure uniformity of appearance.
However, as the army faces recruitment difficulties, it is looking for ways to promote inclusivity and encourage men with beards to enlist.
