§ 45. Lord John Hopeasked the Prime Minister whether he will make a statement on the granting of a general service medal to the Forces engaged in Malaya.
§ The Prime Minister (Mr. Attlee)This matter is at present under consideration.
§ Lord John HopeI hope the Prime Minister will realise that the country will be disappointed that no decision has yet been arrived at. Does not he agree that the granting of such an award as this would be the best way of showing the men on the spot that their country is not unmindful of their devotion to duty and is grateful for it?
§ The Prime MinisterI am waiting for some information from the High Commissioner on certain aspects.
§ Sir Ronald RossWill the Prime Minister bear in mind that in the past general service medals have been awarded for operations involving far less hardship and far fewer casualties than the operation in Malaya?
§ Wing-Commander HulbertWill the right hon. Gentleman give an assurance that this matter is under active consideration?
§ The Prime MinisterI have already done so.