§ 47. Mr. Thornton-Kemsleyasked the Prime Minister why barrack wardens are not eligible for the Defence Medal and the 1939–45 Star; and whether, in view 1528 of their responsible duties and distinguished service in accounting for and safeguarding military property during the war, he will issue these awards in appropriate cases to members of this uniformed service.
§ Mr. H. MorrisonThe Defence Medal is granted to civilians primarily for Civil Defence service, and any barrack wardens who were registered members of a Departmental or a local authority Civil Defence organisation would be eligible for the medal for service therein, subject to the usual conditions. If barrack wardens as such were to be included, it would be difficult to exclude numerous other categories of civilian Government employees, and it is hard to see where any line could be drawn. It is not proposed, therefore, to vary the present arrangement. The 1939–45 Star is not awarded for service in non-operational areas.
§ Mr. Thornton-KemsleyDoes not the right hon. Gentleman agree that these barrack wardens in peacetime would require to be of exemplary character, to have had 21 years' service and a first-class certificate of education; and whilst that does not apply in wartime, yet they had to have very high qualifications, they rendered valuable services to the Armed Forces, and should not that make them eligible at least for the Defence Medal?
§ Mr. MorrisonThe matter has been examined not unsympathetically. I appreciate the considerations which the hon. Member has put forward. The real trouble is that we must draw the line somewhere; otherwise, I am afraid that, while it would be pleasant, nevertheless it would be unreal and wrong, and I think we should be in danger of covering the whole population.