§ 7. Captain P. Macdonaldasked the Secretary of State for War whether the 1939–43 Star will be awarded to the Indian regiments who have taken part in the operations of the Persian-Iraq force, 1941, with the Middle East Force in Syria, and who now form part of the Eighth Army in Italy.
§ Sir J. GriggI am informed that regulations for the award of the 1939–43 Star to Indian troops are in the course of preparation. Service in operations within specified dates in Iraq, Persia and Syria will undoubtedly count towards the six months qualifying period for the 1039–43 Star.
§ Captain MacdonaldIs it not time that these anomalies and delays were cleared up so that we know where we stand?
§ Sir J. GriggI knew I would get into considerable trouble over this Question because I took it upon myself to answer for the Secretary of State for India. It is not my own responsibility and I think that if my hon. and gallant Friend wants to pursue the matter further he had better pursue it with my right hon. Friend.