§ Mr. Laurence RobertsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what plans he has to recognise all those who have served less than five years in the armed forces as part of the Golden Jubilee celebrations; and if he will make a statement. [9018]
§ Dr. Moonie[holding answer 22 October 2001]: There are no specific plans to recognise the service of any members of the Armed Forces as part of the Golden Jubilee celebrations. As my right hon. Friend the Home Secretary announced on 15 February, a Golden Jubilee Medal will be instituted. It will be awarded to uniformed members of the Armed Forces, who are serving on the 6 February 2002, the anniversary of The Queen's accession, and have completed five years or more qualifying service. There are no plans to extend this to all serving members of the Armed Forces. The purpose of the medal is to commemorate the Golden Jubilee, not to recognise the service of its recipients.