Is Standardization of a Clans' Tartan Fabric Important or Not?

[Tobus]

Should clans recommend, sanction, or recognize any particular mill as providing a clan standard?

Should they? No! I wouldn't want to imagine a future where a clan chief recognises only one particular tartan motif for his clan, and everyone wears a kilt that looks the exact same as if they were a pipe band. Part of the joy of wearing a clan tartan is that it is recognisable as being that clan's tartan, but allows individual expression. I always love seeing photos of clan gatherings where there is a wide variety of colour differences, sett sizes, and of course kilt construction differences that make each wearer's kilt unique to him.