HL Deb 01 May 1975 vol 360 cc89-90WA
Viscount BROOKEBOROUGH

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they will reconsider the decision not to award the General Service Medal to members of the Royal Ulster Constabulary; and, if they decide to confirm their decision, whether they will create a special award to demonstrate the country's appreciation of the courage and devotion to duty of that constabulary.

Lord DONALDSON of KINGSBRIDGE

The General Service Medal is a military award and is not appropriate for a civilian police force. Careful and sympathetic consideration has been given to the suggestion that a special award should be made to members of the Royal Ulster Constabulary but it has been concluded that it would not be appropriate for a general award to be made. RUC members are already eligible for individual police and national awards for gallantry and distinguished service and their outstanding and courageous service has been recognised by many such awards.

House adjourned at twenty minutes past seven o'clock.