HC Deb 23 October 1945 vol 414 cc1858-9
35. Major Wyatt

asked the Secretary of State for War how many men who served in the Chindit campaigns in Burma are not eligible for the Burma Star.

Mr. Lawson

I regret that figures are not available and could not be obtained without a disproportionate amount of labour. The verification of claims is continuously going on.

Major Wyatt

Is it not a fact that some of these men are not eligible for the Burma Star, and does not my right hon. Friend think that some very special exception ought to be made in these cases? Will he undertake to investigate the matter?

Mr. Lawson

It is very difficult to give a definite decision upon any particular case in regard to this question. I have made very close inquiries, and there is a continual investigation going on with regard to each case, and that is the most I can say to my hon. and gallant Friend.

Mr. Driberg

Will my right hon. Friend bear in mind that this was one of the questions that cropped up at his meetings in Burma with the men out there recently—

Mr. Lawson

Yes, Sir, I am aware of that.

Mr. Driberg

—that he undertook to raise with the Cabinet on his return, and that the men are relying on him to keep his word?

Mr. Lawson

I am very well aware that there is very strong feeling upon this question and indeed upon all questions affecting Burma.