THE KILT BANNED.

Dominion, Volume 5, Issue 1541, 10 September 1912, Page 6

THE KILT BANNED.

PROTEST FROM AUCKLAND." (Br Telem-anli.—HDccial OorreeDondent.) Auckland, September 9. The Highland Company of tho Third (Auckland) Infantry Regiment lias l>ooll ordered to abandon tho kilt on all service parades. This has caused keen disappointment ifl. tno company, ns well as in Scottish circles throughout tho Auckland district. A petition is nt present being largely signed by Scotsmen and Aucklanders of Scottish descent against this violation of national tradition. This decision, according to tho statement of Mr. W. Lees, a late member of tlio company, is a breach of tho agreement made with tho company when it was drafted from the old volunteer force to the present Territorial organisation.

On August 8 Mr. Lees addressed a letter to tlio Hon. James Alleu, to tho effect that the company was formed and equipped with Highland uniforms in IMS by Scotsmen and New Zealnmlers of Scottish descent, and by their keenness and enthusiasm became a very efficient unit under tho volunteer system. Further, tlio Highland uniforms wero supplied by tlio compare and the Auckland public', the DefonciTDepartment authorising the wojiriug of the same. Continuing, Mr. Lees stated that when the present Territorial scheme was inaugurated, the company became a part thereof on the , distinct understanding that they would be allowed to wear the kilt on all company and ceremonial parades. This was agreed to, but a few weeks ago the captain of tho company received an order to tho efl'e'ct already noted. ■ • >