§ Sir E. HUME-WILLIAMSasked the Secretary of State for War whether British soldiers who have been prisoners of war do not receive decorations for valour however gallantly they may have fought before or at the time of their capture; and whether, if such be the rule, the time has arrived when the claims of repatriated prisoners to such decorations may be considered without being prejudiced by the term of internment as prisoners which they have endured?
Captain GUESTNo, Sir. Recommendations for the award of decorations may now be accepted for officers and men who became prisoners of war in respect of services unconnected with their capture. Services connected with capture will also be considered provided the individual has been absolved by the competent authority from blame in the matter of capture. In all cases recommendations must be substantiated by at least two witnesses who have first-hand knowledge of the services under consideration, one of whom must be an officer. I am sending my hon. and learned Friend a copy of the Army Order which deals with the matter.