§ 19. Major Sir BERTRAM FALLEasked the First Lord of the Admiralty if he is aware that the grant of the clasps for the Royal Navy sanctioned by His Majesty in 1920 are still delayed; can he say if such delay is due to waiting for the Army or to expense; if the latter, if the delay would be obviated if officers and men paid for such clasps; and if he can give the approximate cost of such clasps?
23. Lieut.-Colonel Sir P. RICHARDSONasked the Financial Secretary to the Admiralty whether it is yet settled what clasps are to be issued for Naval service during the War; and, if so, when are they to be issued?
§ Commander EYRES-MONSELLThe conditions governing the award of Naval clasps are laid down in Admiralty Fleet Order 2051 of 1920, but all action as to their free issue has been suspended owing to the urgent necessity for economy. The sale of clasps is considered undesirable. The total cost, including the issuing of Naval clasps is estimated at £120,000.
§ Sir B. FALLEIs it a fact that the delay is due to the junior Service standing in the way, the cost to the junior Service being £1,500,000?
§ Commander EYRES-MONSELLOf course there is always a prime necessity for the two Services working together in the matter
§ Sir B. FALLEIs it not a fact that His Majesty has approved of the Naval clasps, and that the Army clasps are not as yet being considered? Is the Navy to wait until the Army demand is accepted?
§ Commander EYRES-MONSELLI am not aware that that is the case.