HC Deb 10 April 1945 vol 409 cc1662-3
32. Mr. Turton

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he will introduce a rose Emblem as a clasp to the 1939–43 Star for personnel of the Army who are qualified for both the 1939–43 Star and the Africa Star, so that such personnel may enjoy the distinction enjoyed by personnel in the R.N., R.A.F. and Merchant Navy with similar qualifications.

Sir J. Griģģ

No, Sir. The silver "8" and "1" Emblems on the Africa Star ribbon in the Army signify specified service in the North African compaign after 23rd October, 1942, in the same way that the silver rose Emblem on the 1939–43 Star ribbon in the Navy and Merchant Navy distinguishes those who had service connected with that campaign during that period.

33. Mr. Turton

asked the Secretary of State for War if he has any information as to the number of Service ribbons for service in this war so far issued for the U.S.A. Army and the Army of the U.S.S.R.

Sir J. Griģģ

My information is that in the first case the total is 4, and that in the second there have been no such issues.

Mr. Turton

Will my right hon. Friend make sure that we have parity in these matters before the Armies meet in Berlin?

Sir J. Griģģ

I do not know whether my hon. Friend means parity with the United States or with the Soviet Armies.

Captain Marsden

Does my right hon. Friend include in his figures the medal awarded to those in the Army at the time of Pearl Harbour?

Sir J. Griģģ

The Question refers to ribbons for service in this war.

40. Sir I. Albery

asked the Secretary of State for War with reference to increase of the monetary award to go with the Victoria Cross and any other decoration, if he can state that such increases will also be paid to earlier holders of these decorations as from the same date as the increases become operative.

The Chancellor of the Exchequer (Sir John Anderson)

I have been, asked to reply. As stated by my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister in his announcement on 27th February, the various changes apply to awards made for service since 3rd September, 1939. The recipients will, if living, be eligible retrospectively for the new gratuities, and will be eligible for the new pensions as from 1st October, 1944.