Colonel NEWMANasked the Secretary of State for War whether the cable censors, who were under military law and on duty during the daylight air raid of 7th July, 1917, at the Central Telegraph Office and General Post Office when it was struck by two or three bombs, the roof set on fire, and a sentry on guard outside the building was killed, had been given specific written orders by the War Office to remain at their posts during an air raid, not to vacate the censors' rooms, and not to take cover below, though the telegraph staff and employees were ordered by their chief to take cover in the basement during air raids; whether, in consideration of the specific order to remain at their posts during air raids and not to take cover, a medal has been awarded those cable censors who were present on duty that day; and, if not, whether he will consider the granting of of one, or, failing a medal, some other recognition of their work under direct enemy fire?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLAs far as I am aware, no written orders of the nature suggested were issued by the War Office. I understand that the top floor of the office was evacuated after the air-raid warning was given, but work was carried on in other parts of the building. With regard to the last two parts of the question, a medal has not been awarded to the cable censors referred to, but, as I have previously stated, the grant of a medal to those who rendered service at home in connection with the War is under consideration.
§ Mr. A. SHORTasked the Secretary of State for War whether he proposes to acknowledge by some decoration or medal the services of those who formed the antiaircraft section during the War?
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§ Sir A. WILLIAMSONAs stated previously, the question of the award of a medal for those who rendered service at home in connection with the War is under consideration.