§ 44. Mrs. Renée Shortasked the Secretary of State for Defence what he proposes to do to mark the 25th anniversary of the overthrow of German Nazism.
§ Mr. Healey:The question of some special form of national commemoration to mark the 25th anniversary of the ending of World War II has been carefully considered. However, we have come to the conclusion that such an event could not add to—but only detract from —the significance of the Cenotaph service on Remembrance Sunday which represents the unique recognition of the ending of both world wars.
Nevertheless, we have not allowed this anniversary to pass without recognition. It has been marked by a reception at Lancaster House on 1st May, in the presence of H.R.H. The Prince of Wales, for former members of the Resistance and Intelligence services who worked so valiantly in Western Europe during the last war and by a special service on 2nd May at St. Clement Danes for the forces of the Resistance in Western Europe. In addition, the annual service in Liverpool Cathedral on 10th May will commemorate the 25th Anniversary of the Battle of the Atlantic.