HC Deb 10 March 1942 vol 378 c920
40. Major Procter

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport whether he is aware that officers and men of the Merchant Navy who have lost their lives in the service of their country have their certificates stamped "cancelled"; that these certificates have great sentimental value to their families; that the word "cancelled" is used also in cases of misdemeanour; and will he consider a special stamp for such cases?

Mr. Noel-Baker

My hon. and gallant Friend is mistaken in thinking that the certificate of an officer who has been found guilty of an offence is stamped with the word "cancelled." In fact the certificate is withdrawn altogether. I realise that these certificates of officers who lose their lives in the service of their country are highly valued by their relatives, and I am arranging that in future a special stamp shall be used.

Major Procter

Is it possible for those certificates which have been sent to relatives to be re-stamped with the appropriate words?

Mr. Noel-Baker

Yes, Sir. I will certainly look into that and endeavour to have it done.