§ The Prime MinisterI wish, with the permission of the House, to make a statement about monetary grants to the leaders of the Armed Forces.
His Majesty's Government have given this matter very full consideration. They have reached the conclusion that it would not be in accord with the spirit of the times, or with the character of a war which has called for sustained efforts on the part of the whole community, Services and civilians alike, to single out a small number of individuals for recognition by way of monetary grants.
His Majesty's Government have therefore decided that on this occasion they will not invite Parliament to make monetary grants to military leaders. At the same time His Majesty's Government wish it to be clearly understood that their decision has been taken purely on the general ground that in their view the award of monetary grants is no longer appropriate—a view which they believe will be generally shared by the people of the country. It must in no wise be construed as showing any lack of appreciation of the magnificent services rendered by our military leaders, services which have never been surpassed in our history.