§ 56. Captain P. Macdonaldasked the Prime Minister whether he will consider the award of Service medals and decorations to pilots of British Overseas Airways engaged on the war effort on similar lines to those awarded to the Mercantile Marine?
§ The Prime MinisterThe awards available for Civil Air Transport air crews are the George Cross, appointment to the appropriate class of the Order of the British Empire, the George Medal, the British Empire Medal, Commendation for valuable service in the air, Wound Stripes and Chevrons for war service. Bars may be awarded to the George Cross and to both Medals. These air crews are therefore accorded a wide range of appropriate Honours and awards, and I do not think that there is need for any change.
Mr. AstorWill men who served, say, in Malta during the period of the siege, be eligible for the Africa Star?
§ The Prime MinisterI think I should have to look into that question. As I have said, I look forward to the opportunity of discussing these questions with the House, because we must endeavour to deal with them.