HC Deb 04 December 1946 vol 431 c342
73. Mr. Medland

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he is aware that the parents of Anthony Nicholls, 16 years of age and Eric Claude Mudge, 15 years of age who ran away to sea in July, 1942, were signed on in s.s. "Belgian Soldier" at Liverpool as galley boy and cabin boy, respectively, and lost their lives by enemy action, have been informed by the Belgian Embassy that the British Government declined acceptance of decorations for the above-mentioned young men; and if he will reconsider this decision, in view of the desire of the parents to hold some visible recognition of the sacrifice of their sons.

Mr. McNeil

I regret that no record of the receipt of any such offer can be traced.

Mr. Medland

In view of the fact that the Belgian Embassy have written to the parents to say that their good offices were used in an endeavour to obtain acceptance of these decorations, will he again look into the matter?

Mr. McNeil

I am quite certain that there is no record, but if my hon. Friend will give me details I will have the matter investigated.

Mr. Medland

I shall be very pleased to do so.