§ 4. Mr. Ammonasked the Secretary of State for Air when he proposes to abolish the system of class distinction of awards, under which non-commissioned ranks receive the Distinguished Flying Medal while commissioned officers received the Distinguished Flying Cross for services of equal risk and bravery performed under similar conditions?
Captain BalfourI regret that pressure of more urgent affairs during the last few weeks has delayed progress on this matter. The hon. Member may rest assured that it has not been overlooked and will be given further attention as soon as possible.
§ Mr. AmmonIs the hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that I did draw attention to this point some time ago, and may I ask whether it is intended to side-track the matter?
Captain BalfourNo, Sir, there is no intention to try to side-track it at all. All three Services have been working under exceptional strain during the past few weeks, and this matter is not one on which it would be fair or reasonable for one Service to take a snap decision. We should get the co-ordinated and agreed decision of the three Services.