News Item

From Special Irish Fest Celtic Fashion Correspondent Bryan Honnor:

LONDON- British military officials report a kilt shortage among Scottish troops, leading to more than 5,000 of the soldiers having to share the traditional garment. The shortage is blamed on a purchasing delay by the military's tartan procurers.

The Scottish troops have just 320 kilts, or one for every 15 soldiers. The kilts are worn by Scottish troops in strictly ceremonial circumstance, having been abandoned as battle uniform after World War 1.

The full compliment of kilts is not expected to be met until January 2008.

The Irish on the other hand, who have the good sense to wear proper trousers, a better variety of bagpipes, and wisely refrain from eating Haggis, report no such problems.