HC Deb 29 July 1946 vol 426 cc497-8
11. Colonel J. R. H. Hutchison

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs how many King's Medals for gallantry and King's Medals for service have now been awarded to French nationals who helped British personnel during the occupation.

Mr. Noel-Baker

As my hon. Friend the Under-Secretary of State said in answer to the hon. and gallant Member on 20th May, awards are submitted for His Majesty's approval, as and when the concurrence of the French Government is obtained; but any attempt to give the numbers would be both misleading and contrary to public policy.

Colonel Hutchison

Does this mean that, although two years have elapsed since the decorations were initiated, none has been given?

Mr. Noel-Baker

It does not mean that. As a matter of general policy, the numbers are not revealed.

Mr. Martin Lindsay

Surely, we must press for an answer to this Question. Is there any reason why we should not be given the information whether there are 100, 200 or 500 cases of this nature in which these decorations have been awarded? Is not this a matter on which many people feel deeply?

Mr. Noel-Baker

As my hon. Friend said on 20th May, it has always been a matter of public policy not to give the numbers.

Mr. Lindsay

May we be told why?

Mr. Noel-Baker

This involves relations between us and a foreign Government, and it is for that reason.

Mr. Walker-Smith

Will the Minister make it clear that there has been no delay on this side and that nothing is being done that would make us less loved by our very sensitive and civilised Allies?

Mr. Noel-Baker

I have every reason to believe that there has been no delay on our side.

Colonel Hutchison

Will the right hon. Gentleman ask the French Government whether they have any objection to the figures being published?

Mr. Noel-Baker

I will do more than that; I will reconsider the whole question of publication.

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