asked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been called to a Circular issued by the Privy Council Office which prevents the wearing of naval or military uniform by high sheriffs when in attendance. on His Majesty's Judges; and if he will give the reasons for this decision?

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. Service uniform is not considered appropriate for the discharge of a purely civil function, and I understand that the naval and military authorities object to the wearing of their uniforms on such occasions.