HC Deb 26 February 1946 vol 419 cc367-8W
Mr. Leslie

asked the Secretary of State for War why the Defence Medal only is being given to the men who served in Iceland and the Faroe Islands and not the J939-45 Star or the Atlantic Star.

Mr. Lawson

The 1939-45 Star is a campaign star and is awarded primarily for service in operations against the enemy in an active theatre of war. The Atlantic Star is primarily a Naval and Air Star corresponding to the Army and Air Campaign Stars. Naval personnel ashore are not eligible for it. I do not consider that either Star would be an appropriate award for service in the Army in Iceland and the Faroe Islands.

Colonel J. R. H. Hutchison

asked the Secretary of State for War how many King's medals for courage and King's medals for service have been awarded to date to French nationals.

Mr. Lawson

While a considerable number of such awards is contemplated, I am not in a position to give actual figures, because the recommendations involve prior consultation with the French Government, and until they concur in individual cases, it is not possible for these to be formally submitted for approval. Over 100 recommendations have already been submitted to the French authorities for their agreement, and many more are on the way.

Mr. Popplewell

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department to whom application should be made for permission to wear the Defence ribbon by air-raid wardens; and when this medal will be available.

Mr. Ede

I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply which my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister gave today to the hon. and gallant Member for East Renfrew (Major Lloyd). The date for the making of claims will be announced in due course. The medal itself will not be available for a considerable time, and I am not in a position at present to make any exact forecast.