§ 25. Lieut.-Colonel Bromley-Davenportasked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that when application is made for a Territorial efficiency decoration, one of the certifiers has to be an 1866 officer with rank not below that of Brigadier; and whether, as it is extremely difficult for many men to be in touch with officers of this rank, he will allow this certifier to have a somewhat lower rank.
§ The Secretary of State for War (Mr. Strachey)This rule is designed to ensure that the applicant has attained a high standard of efficiency and has proved himself in every way deserving of the award. I am aware of very few cases in which difficulty has been experienced in obtaining the completion of this certificate. Such cases are given individual consideration. If the hon. and gallant Member has any individual cases in mind, perhaps he will send me details.
§ Lieut.-Colonel Bromley-DavenportIs the Secretary of State aware how difficult it is for applicants to get into touch with their previous commanders, who may have forgotten them, anyway? Why is it necessary to go through all this rigmarole? Would it not be far simpler for the War Office to get hold of the information from Records and issue the medals automatically?
§ Mr. StracheyThe House is probably aware that this is an award available to officers. I should not think that it is very difficult for an applicant to get hold of a brigadier through his C.O. or in some other way. If the hon. and gallant Gentleman has in mind a case of difficulty and will send it to me, I shall be most willing to look at it, and to look at it as a matter of principle for future cases.