HC Deb 14 May 1912 vol 38 cc968-9
Mr. SANDYS

asked whether the right hon. Gentleman had received a request from the Corporation of Trinity House asking that their officers and men should be made eligible for the Imperial Service Order and Imperial Service Medal; and whether, in view of the arduous and responsible duties in connection with lighthouse work performed by the officers and men of the Trinity House service, he will advise the amendment of the regulations in order that these men may be eligible for these decorations?

Mr. McKENNA

I have not received any request on the subject. I would remind the hon. Member that the Statutes of the Order limit the Imperial Service Order and Medal to members of the Civil Services of the Empire.

Mr. SANDYS

Is the right hon. Gentleman not aware that the secretary of the corporation definitely stated that he has made a request of this character to the Home Department, and could the right hon. Gentleman also take into consideration the fact that these men perform services of a responsible and public character, and see that they are made eligible for some form of decoration?

Mr. McKENNA

With regard to the first part of the supplementary question, no such request has reached me; and I was not aware that the secretary had stated that such a request has been made. With regard to the second part of the question, I can only refer the hon. Member to the answer I have already given.