HC Deb 09 December 1919 vol 122 cc1114-5
30. Captain LOSEBY

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he would consider the advisability of recognising in some extraordinary manner the cases of ex-Regular warrant officers to whom a special appeal was issued by Lord Kitchener in 1914 to rejoin the Army as instructors for the purpose of training the New Armies and who responded in large numbers and had no small share in the subsequent defeat of the enemy, but whose efforts had, up to the present, not received any special recognition?

Mr. CHURCHILL

The question of an award for those who have rendered service outside theatres of war is under consideration. I think that those who have served in the theatres of war must have their case dealt with first.

Captain LOSEBY

In view of the fact that it was considered worth while to issue a special appeal to these particular men, would it not also be worth while, now that their service is terminated, to recognise their work?

Mr. CHURCHILL

It will take three or four years to get the medals and clasps out for the men who did the fighting. I do feel that there is not a great deal of urgency in settling the awards to those who did not take part in the active sphere. I agree that it is a matter which should be carefully considered.

Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHY

Give them the O.B.E.

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