Written question asked by Lord Deben (Conservative) on Tuesday, 6 November 2001, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 12 November 2001. It was answered by Lord Moonie (Labour) on Monday, 12 November 2001 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, if he will instruct the Adjutant General's Office to instigate a review of the rules covering the issue of the Defence Medal.

Answer: Mr. Gummer: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will instruct the Adjutant General's Office to instigate a review of the rules covering the issue of the defence medal. [13543] Dr. Moonie: I do not believe there is a requirement for a review of the regulations surrounding the defence medal. In 1946, the Committee on the Grants of Honours, Decorations and Medals discussed the awards, and their qualifying criteria, that should be instituted to reward service in the campaigns, operations and defence commitments during the Second World War. Members of the Committee included senior military and Government officers who had first hand experience and thorough knowledge of the events throughout the war. The regulations governing the qualification requirements for all Second World War medals were finalised in 1948, following approval from His Majesty King George VI, and were announced on 11 June 1948. These regulations have been strictly adhered to ever since.

Secondary information