§ Flying-Officer Bowdenasked the Secretary of State for War if he is aware that 365W there is great delay in the payment of gratuities to officers who were released from the Army prior to the release scheme and that there is also delay in the issue of the Defence Medal ribbon to these officers, and if he will take steps to expedite these matters.
§ Mr. LawsonI regret that some delay has occurred in the issue of gratuities to officers released before the beginning of the release scheme, but this work has been carried out as rapidly as possible and is now nearing completion. The non-issue of a gratuity in the majority of cases is, however, due to the fact that officers have failed to apply on the. appropriate form which can be obtained at post offices.
The supply position has not so far permitted the issue of Defence Medal ribbons except to serving officers and soldiers; but I hope that it wall be possible to make an early start on issues to those who left the Service without receiving the ribbon.