§ 19. Sir J. BUTCHERasked the Secretary of State for War whether he will consider the desirability of issuing a special ribbon to all officers, non-commissioned officers, and men who have fought in the late War and who have been mentioned in dispatches?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLI regret that I cannot see my way to adopt my hon. and learned Friend's suggestion. This matter has already been fully considered, and it has been decided to issue a special certificate to all officers, non-commisioned officers and men who have been mentioned in dispatches for services in the field during the War. The certificates are in course of preparation, but may not be ready for some months owing to the large numbers involved.
§ Sir J. BUTCHERWould not the right hon. Gentleman see that it is very much more valuable and interesting to a man mentioned in dispatches to have a little piece of ribbon on his coat than a certificate which he might leave at home and nobody might ever see?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLWe are multiplying ribbons very fast now, and I am doubtful of the advantage of issuing a new one.
§ Sir J. BUTCHERDoes the right hon. Gentleman not see that, although some men have got a great many ribbons, some of these gallant fellows who have been often recommended for decorations, but have not got them, might in this way get some recognition?
Lieut.-Colonel MURRAYWould the right hon. Gentleman be prepared to reconsider this question? It would cause great satisfaction to thousands of officers and men.
§ Mr. CHURCHILLI cannot give any promise. The French have a system of stars on ribbons. I am not sure that is not worthy of consideration.