HC Deb 06 December 1976 vol 922 cc14-5W
Mr. Eldon Griffiths

asked the Secretary of State for Defence why former soldiers who volunteered for service in the British Army as long ago as 1940 and served for up to six years still have not received their campaign stars and medals; why applications for such decorations are taking approximately two years to process; and how many former World War II soldiers he estimates, on actuarial figures, may not live long enough to receive such medals during their lifetime.

Mr. Robert C. Brown

The rapid demobilisation at the end of World War II meant that many servicemen and servicewomen left the Forces before campaign stars and medals were ready for issue. When these became available, those eligible were urged to apply for them on special postcards available in all Post Offices, and the Army Medal Office staff was increased to deal with the applications. Despite wide publicity in the national Press, many thousands failed to apply then for their medals.

As a result, belated applications are still being received, at the rate of about 5,000 a year. The Service records of each applicant have to be carefully checked to assess his or her eligibility and entitlement, but it has not been possible to provide additional staff to handle these claims. Although they are dealt with as quickly as possible, and in strict order of receipt, the current period of delay is approximately two years.

It is not possible to answer the last part of the question.