13. Mr. TREVELYAN THOMSONasked the Secretary of State for War whether any decorations have been issued to officers, non-commissioned officers, or men who never served overseas in the War; and, if so, how many were granted to those who had home service only?
§ Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANSThe circumstances of not serving overseas naturally did not disqualify any officers or soldiers who rendered meritorious service during the War from receiving such appropriate honours and rewards as they 1113 might have received for analogous good service in time of peace. The answer to the first part of the question is therefore in the affirmative, but I regret that I am not in a position to answer the last part from any record readily available.
Mr. THOMSONCan the right hon. Gentleman say why, if decorations have been granted to the higher commands for home service, the Home Service Medal cannot be granted to other ranks?
§ Sir L WORTHINGTON-EVANSAs I said, the circumstance of not serving overseas did not disqualify any officers who rendered appropriate service.
§ Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANSIt does not disqualify for Orders. I do not know whether the hon. Gentleman realises the difference between Orders and Medals.