§ 48. Mr. Anthony Nuttingasked the Prime Minister in what way His Majesty's Government have conveyed their gratitude to the British Service chiefs for their leadership of the Armed Forces during the world war of 1939–45.
§ The Prime Minister (Mr. Attlee)I would refer the hon. Member to the reply which I gave to the hon. and gallant Member for East Renfrew (Major Lloyd) 429 on 8th November, in which I said that the gratitude of this House to the principal leaders of our Armed Forces was expressed in the Motion of Gratitude to the Forces which was passed on 30th October.
§ Mr. NuttingWould the right hon. Gentleman consider following the excellent Socialist example in the Soviet Union of not only congratulating its generals for each individual victory in special Orders of the Day, but also giving large money grants to their families?
§ The Prime MinisterWe have considered this matter, and, with regard to the latter part of the hon. Gentleman's question, we considered that this was inappropriate. It has been done in times past, but we considered that it was inappropriate at the present time. I also consider that in a war which involved almost the whole of the population, general thanks are better than making particular distinctions in which there is always a danger of leaving out some individuals.
§ Earl WintertonWhen the right hon. Gentleman uses the term "at the present time" does he mean that the situation is not finalised and that His Majesty's Government are still open to consider suggestions on this matter?
§ The Prime MinisterNo, Sir. With regard to money grants, I was taking it as referring to the present epoch in which we are today, rather than any future time.
§ Mr. SpeakerI would point out that the matter raised in this Question was the subject of Debate about a fortnight ago.