Medals And Decorations

12.

Mr. J. Langford-Holt
asked the Secretary of State for War how many officers and men are estimated to be entitled to campaign stars or medals for war service; and how many have now applied for these decorations.

Mr. Shinwell
It is estimated that approximately 4,012,000 male and female officers and other ranks are eligible to qualify for medals and campaign stars. Applications for these have been received from or on behalf of approximately 1,378,000.

Mr. Langford-Holt
Has the right hon. Gentleman formed any opinion as to what has happened to the other three million? Was there a bad estimate by his Department, or a reluctance on the part of those entitled to claim?

Mr. Shinwell
There is a simple explanation. They have not claimed.

Brigadier Medlicott
Could the right hon. Gentleman take steps to expedite the delivery of the medals on application?

Mr. Shinwell
We will certainly expedite the delivery of medals to those entitled if they claim them.