Wrathmonk,
Thanks for the spellcheck, still half asleep (and I can't spell).
Re AP 1358, quite so for non Standard Party (WOs will only carry swords as part of a Colour / Standard party).
However, AP3327 (Colours and Standards in the Royal Air Force), Chapter 5 para 0503 ...persons who have to handle the silk...must always wear clean white gloves.
Hope this helps