HC Deb 02 May 1944 vol 399 cc1179-80
20. Mr. Astor

asked the Secretary of State for War whether members of the M.T.C. are eligible for the Africa Star on the same conditions as other women's services.

The Secretary of State for War (Sir James Grigg)

The M.T.C. is a civil body and its members are not eligible for the Star unless they joined one of the Women's Auxiliary Services.

Mr. Astor

Is my right hon. Friend aware that this unit went to the Middle East at the request of the Commander-in-Chief, that they were fed, clothed and looked after by the Army and served in the desert for months, and that some were actually given the Africa Star by General Montgomery in the field?

Sir J. Grigg

I would rather like to have the information which the hon. Member has just given to the House, because in some respects it is contrary to the information that I have. If he will give it to me I shall be glad to deal with it.

Sir H. Williams

Having regard to the fact that the M.T.C. has been used by every Government Department, if it is a civil organisation and is infringing the Act passed before the war, why do not the Government either recognise it definitely or prosecute it?

Mr. Turton

Do not E.N.S.A. get this decoration?

Sir J. Grigg

Some E.N.S.A. people do; those who are under the direct control of the Army.

Mr. Astor

Is it not ridiculous to give it to E.N.S.A., who come out for a comparatively short time, and though doing very valuable work, it involves nothing like the danger and importance of these ambulance drivers?

Sir J. Grigg

I understand—and this is where the account of the hon. Member and that sent to me seem not to be in accord—that most of these drivers were advised to, and, in fact, did, join one or other of the Women's Services.

Mr. Astor

Will not my right hon. Friend give it to those who did not join the Women's Services but remained on in their unit and did most valuable work?