§ Q3. Sir J. Langford-Holtasked the Prime Minister what are the difficulties which make it impossible for him to approve a change in the regulations governing the wearing by Her Majesty's subjects of decorations awarded to them by foreign States.
§ The Prime MinisterTo allow foreign decorations to be worn more freely than is at present customary could lead to the virtual abolition of the existing distinction, which seems right and proper, between restricted and unrestricted wearing of decorations. Moreover, amendment would entail seeking similar alterations in the Commonwealth Order Regulations.
§ Sir J. Langford-HoltAs these difficulties have been overcome by practically all foreign countries, would not my right hon. Friend look again at this problem, in view of the resentment caused among foreign Governments that their decorations, though they have been properly categorised by Her Majesty's Government as being fit to be accepted, are not fit to be worn?
§ The Prime MinisterThere has always been this difference between the restricted and the unrestricted, and it goes back to the long tradition of this country to be rather more careful in the distribution and use of these foreign decorations. But I find it very difficult to conduct this exchange with my hon. Friend by Question and Answer. If he would be good enough to see me, I will try to collect the experts. I cannot claim to be an expert on this rather complicated question of protocol.
Miss LeeDoes not the Prime Minister think that it would be better manners, and more in keeping with contemporary values, if we were just a little less stuffy in our attitude to all these regulations, bearing in mind not only decorations but clothes generally? It does not add to the dignity of this country, or to its reputations for good manners in regard to protocol, to insist, for instance, on people wearing polar dinner clothes in the heat of Australia.
§ The Prime MinisterClothes do not have anything to do with decorations.
§ Mr. Farey-JonesAlthough I have nothing at all to do with the Question on the Order Paper, in accordance with the custom of the House I must declare a slight personal interest. Is it not manifestly absurd that citizens of this country who have been honoured by foreign States should be prevented, except in the most absurd circumstances, from wearing those decorations? Should not this archaic and feudal prevention of a pride natural in those people be brought to an end?
§ The Prime MinisterAs I say, it is rather a complicated question. I am prepared to look at it again, but it is one on which agreement has been reached, and it would be necessary to get all the Commonwealth countries to agree to a change.