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<p>Acknowledging previous PQs on the same theme, I refer the hon. Member to the answer
I gave him on 5 February 2021, to Questions 145107 and 145108 and relating to Questions
133119,133120 and 133121, that articulated MODs historical and ongoing approach to
and consideration of inclusive solutions for Chemical Biological Radiological and
Nuclear (CBRN) respiratory protection, including communication of the fundamental
complexities.</p><p> </p><p>The Ministry of Defence (MOD) is committed to active encouragement
and growth of research, education, and advancements in the provision of inclusive
counter-CBRN capabilities. The necessity for diversity and inclusion consideration
is recognized globally and features within the key requirements of MODs counter-CBRN
policy, strategies, research and international engagements.</p><p> </p><p>In specific
response to the recent questions, it is to be highlighted that, amongst other activities,
the MOD ran a targeted “Respiratory Protection and Facial Hair Compatibility Workshop”
in January 2022, supported by the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl).
This workshop directly discussed “<strong>the potential merits of improving general
service respirators for service personnel who have facial hair for religious reasons</strong>”
and “<strong>the potential merits of using silicone bands on general service respirators
for service personnel who have facial hair for religious reasons</strong>”.</p><p>
</p><p>The workshop included representation from the Diversity and Inclusion and Faith
Networks and provided an opportunity to better inform the User community on the subject
of respiratory protection and facial hair, focusing on the General Service Respirator
(GSR).</p><p> </p><p>Some of the recommendations from this workshop were incorporated
into Defence Counter-CBRN policy and Defence continues to fund academic research and
development programmes that explore alternative respiratory options appropriate for
Service personnel who have facial hair for religious reasons.</p>
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