§ Q4. Mr. Carterasked the Prime Minister if he will recommend changes in the honours system, other than in relation to honours for valour.
§ The Prime MinisterThe honours system is kept under regular review. Changes made on my recommendation since June, 1970, include the reintroduction of political honours; the admission of ladies to the Order of the Bath; the introduction of military operational awards for valour for service in Northern Ireland; the exchange of Albert and Edward Medals for the George Cross; and allowing people promoted from the Military to the Civilian Division of the Order of the British Empire or—vice versa—to retain the insignia of the lower class. I shall recommend further changes if the need arises.