§ 46. Mr. Pageasked the Prime Minister what rule or practice governs the recommendation of a posthumous award of the Victoria Cross when a certain time has elapsed since the act of gallantry occurred.
§ The Prime MinisterAll recommendations are governed by Clause 8 of the Royal Warrant of 5th February, 1931, as amended by the Royal Warrant of 31st December, 1942. I am sending a copy of the Clause to my hon. Friend.
§ Mr. PageIs my right hon. Friend aware of the case of Lance-Bombardier Bullen, of which the Secretary of State for War has particulars, and in which a very considerable case of gallantry only came to light thirteen years after the event? When the relatives supplied fully authenticated statements, they were informed by the War Office that it was too late for the matter to be considered. Is that the rule?
§ The Prime MinisterI do not think that is the position. I am sending the Royal Warrant to my hon. Friend. The position is that after very long investigation it was decided that this soldier's very distinguished service should be recognised by a mention in dispatches, which was published in the London Gazette on 1st November. When he studies the Victoria Cross memorandum which I am sending to him, my hon. Friend will be able to judge.