I am not at all upset by the new Speaker’s decision to do away with the more uncomfortable aspects of the old fashioned formal uniform
I do think though that he is making a mistake in opting to wear a tie
First because his choice is bound, sooner or later, to attract comment, to be read as some kind of (maybe subliminal) message
Secondly because the colours & material could be treacherous under the tv lights
The minimal black gown is really not distinctive enough for the central part it plays in the image. Perhaps something with tabs, like the new judicial gowns, could be introduced. Dressed, every day, for the part, instantly, recognisably so
And while I am on the subject of dress – I do hate to seem mean minded, but Oh dear! Those pictures of the winners of The Times Spelling Bee. Blazers out of JK Jerome, festooned with badges of office. The junior branch of the less appealing end of the Tory party
A great achievement, & yes we need school uniforms & chances for children to shine in all sorts of ways, but not, in 2009, dressed like that
