HC Deb 20 February 1919 vol 112 cc1128-9
61. Mr. BILLING

asked the Prime Minister whether, having regard to the desirability of distinguishing between, decorations awarded for valour in the face of the enemy and those awarded for studious application to work within the offices, he will consider the advisability of introducing a regulation which shall provide that all ribbons for honours won on active service shall be transferred from the left to the right breast?

Mr. BONAR LAW

The Government are not prepared to adopt this suggestion.

Mr. BILLING

Will the right hon. Gentleman ask the War Cabinet to consider the matter; and is he aware of the feeling among officers in the matter?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I doubt that.

62. Mr. BILLING

asked the Prime Minister whether he will consider the advisability of the issue of a gilt badge to take the place of the silver badge to all officers and men who are permanently disabled, so that the public may have an opportunity of distinguishing when in mufti these officers and men, and thus prevent them from being hustled in public conveyances and thoroughfares?

237. Lieutenant-Colonel ARCHERSHEE

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he will consider the authorisation of the wearing of an armlet of distinctive colour to discharged and disabled soldiers, both officers and men, who are at present frequently caused considerable pain and discomfort from being crushed in crowds whilst travelling, in view of the fact that the public would undoubtedly assist to protect these men from injury if they could distinguish them by means of some such armlets

Sir J. CRAIG

A white armlet bearing a Royal Crown embroidered in red, of a pattern approved by the King, has been supplied to all fitting hospitals for issue to men who are so incapacitated by loss of limb or limbs as to necessitate protection in crowds whilst travelling. Over 1,000 of these armlets have been issued from Roehampton alone. It is found, however, that as a rule men decline to wear them, and in many cases will not even accept them, being averse from drawing attention to their disability. I do not think that a gilt badge would prove more effective than the silver badge in securing considerate treatment from the public.