HC Deb 02 March 1949 vol 462 cc348-9
36. Mr. Piratin

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he is aware that ex-Staff Sergeant R. Bennett of the Grenadier Guards has been awarded the Greek Military Cross; whether he has served in the Greek Army with the authority of the British Government; whether such authority has been given to other British ex-soldiers; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Bevin

I understand that a Greek Corps Commander made an unauthorised award of the Greek Military Cross to Staff Sergeant R. Bennett. The Greek authorities are, however, fully aware that members of the British Armed Forces are not permitted to accept foreign decorations in peace-time. As Sergeant Bennett has never served in the Greek Army, the second part of the Question does not arise; and the answer to the third part is "No, Sir."

Mr. Piratin

Is the Foreign Secretary aware that, according to the statement made to the Greek Press, quoted in this country, Sergeant Bennett was awarded this distinction because of his gallantry in action and, irrespective of the gallantry—I am discussing the action part—is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this is evidence of the fact that British troops are taking part alongside the Greek Army?

Mr. Bevin

British troops are not taking part alongside the Greek Army.

Mr. Piratin

Then what is Sergeant Bennett doing?

Mr. Bevin

The hon. Member has asked me a Question. He must be courteous enough to allow me to answer, in this country at any rate. The British troops are not taking action alongside the Greek Army. I have no evidence that Sergeant Bennett took any action with the Greek Army. He was serving with the British Military Mission and helping to train them, but he did nothing in connection with operations. In my answer I have given the facts, not what is in the newspapers.

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