Written question asked by Desmond Swayne (Conservative) on Monday, 14 January 2002, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 21 January 2002. It was answered by Lord Moonie (Labour) on Monday, 21 January 2002 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, if he will make a statement about the procedure for considering gallantry awards in Operation Veritas.

Answer: Mr. Swayne: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement about the procedure for considering gallantry awards in Operation Veritas. [28213] Dr. Moonie: The procedure for considering gallantry awards for Operation Veritas will be identical to that used for all other operations. Recommendations for awards, whether they be for gallantry or meritorious service, are initiated by an individual's commanding officer and passed to the Ministry of Defence where they are considered by various Committees. Successful recommendations are then submitted to the Queen for her approval prior to publication. Lists of operational awards are published biannually each spring and autumn and notified to the press. The names of certain recipients may have to be withheld in the interests of personal security.

Secondary information