HL Deb 04 June 1945 vol 136 cc363-4

5.21 p.m.

LORD STRABOLGI

My Lords, I beg to ask the second question standing in my name.

[The question was as follows:

To ask His Majesty's Government, whether it is proposed to recommend to His Majesty that a special medal or star be awarded for service on the Arctic convoys to and from Northern Russia.]

THE DUKE OF NORTHUMBERLAND

My Lords, subject to the prescribed conditions, service with convoys to and from North Russia is to be recognized by the grant of the Atlantic Star.

LORD STRABOLGI

I am sorry to persist again, but is the noble Duke aware that this answer will not satisfy a great many of the officers and men of the Royal Navy and the merchant service, who performed most arduous duties in the Arctic convoys? The warfare was quite unique in its hardship and risk. And will the noble Duke be good enough to convey the suggestion that there might be a special decoration for this remarkable service?

THE DUKE OF NORTHUMBERLAND

I will again convey that suggestion to the proper quarter.