HC Deb 24 October 1916 vol 86 cc934-5
32. Colonel SHARMAN-CRAWFORD

asked the Secretary of State for War if soldiers are not allowed to hold the Russian war decoration and the French cross of war at the same time; if Bombardier Jennings, 51st Battery, Royal Field Artillery, who had been awarded both decorations for two different acts of gallantry, has been ordered to return the Russian decoration; and, if so, where is the order for the same to be found?

Mr. LLOYD GEORGE

Orders are in force that an individual soldier is not to receive more than one foreign decoration. This rule has been adopted in order to ensure an equitable distribution of such decorations. In the case mentioned in the question the second decoration was inadvertently given. Orders have, however, been issued that as a special case both decorations may be retained by the soldier in question.

Mr. HOGGE

Does that apply to officers?

Colonel CRAIG

Would the order granting the decoration to soldiers also apply to officers?

Mr. LLOYD GEORGE

I would not like to answer without notice.

Commander WEDGWOOD

Was not the old rule laid down in time of peace, and is it not now possible to have separate awards for separate acts of gallantry?