HC Deb 18 November 1919 vol 121 c786
11. Sir JOHN BUTCHER

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he can now state the decision of the Government as to the issue of a special decoration to those who have been mentioned in dispatches during the present War?

Mr. CHURCHILL

It is in contemplation to distinguish those who have been mentioned in dispatches in the War by giving them permission to wear a small oak leaf on the ribbon of the Victory medal. That is under consideration, but I am not at this moment able to give a final answer.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

What will be done fur those who have had the good luck to be mentioned twice in dispatches?

Mr. CHURCHILL

That is one of those arguments which causes us to hesitate in taking the decision to which I have referred.

Sir J. BUTCHER

Can the right hon. Gentleman before long pronounce a definite conclusion?

Mr. CHURCHILL

There are some 70,000 or 80,000 persons concerned, and it would be very desirable to come to a decision quickly.

Mr. BILLING

If the right hon. Gentleman does not see his way clear to grant the oak leaf will the War Office cause a letter of appreciation to be sent which those men could keep?

Mr. CHURCHILL

We are considering the whole matter.