Written question asked by Lord Ashcroft (Conservative) on Tuesday, 18 November 2014, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 2 December 2014. It was answered by Lord Astor of Hever (Conservative) on Monday, 1 December 2014 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Falkland Islands

Question: To ask Her Majesty’s Government whether they will revisit the circumstances in which the late Corporal McLaughlin was recommended for a gallantry award during the Falklands conflict which was subsequently withdrawn; and if not, why not.

Answer: The noble lord will be aware of the hon. Member for Wallasey’s (Ms Eagle) Westminster Hall debate on 18 November about posthumous recognition for Corporal McLaughlin. Following the debate, the Minister of State for Defence, Personnel, Welfare and Veterans (Anna Soubry) and I have agreed that while a formal investigation is not an option, I will re-examine the facts surrounding recognition in this case. However, to be clear, no citation for an award was received for consideration by the Ministry of Defence and therefore it would be incorrect to say that Cpl McLaughlin had a recommendation withdrawn. The issue is that no citation was actually submitted for consideration by the Operational Awards Committee; a fact that is acknowledged by all parties.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: HL2898
Session: 2014-15
Attachment: DebateHansard Extract 18 November 2014
Related items: Stewart McLaughlin
Monday, 8 December 2014
Written questions
House of Commons
Subjects: Armed conflict Falkland Islands Military decorations McLaughlin, Stewart
Link: View this Written question on www.parliament.uk