HC Deb 23 November 1948 vol 458 c1071
36. Mr. N. Macpherson

asked the Secretary of State for War how many applications for war medals have been received at the latest available date; and how many have been dealt with.

Mr. M. Stewart

Up to 30th October, 1,132,488 applications had been made for campaign stars, the Defence Medal and the War Medal for service in the Army; issues had been made to 539,635 applicants.

Mr. Macpherson

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that many applications made months ago—some five months ago—have not yet been met? How is he dealing with the situation now? Is it being done by means of rotation?

Mr. Stewart

The rate at which applications can be met fluctuates according to the burden of other work, some of which must take priority, which falls on Record Offices. The hon. Member will notice that the 540,000 issues to which I referred were made since 1st July, which indicates a satisfactory rate.