Soldiers should be recognised

HUGH ROBERTSON ATTACKS GOVERNMENT OVER LACK OF MEDALS FOR IRAQ

Hugh Robertson has attacked the government for their unacceptable delay in awarding a medal to those members of the Armed Forces who served in Iraq, which contrasts with the speed of the honours given to the England rugby team. The attack follows the receipt of a Parliamentary Written Answer from Minister Ivor Caplin saying that he ‘hoped’ to make an announcement in the New Year – over eight months after the end of the conflict.

Hugh based his attack on his own experience following the Gulf War in 1991. He was Adjutant of a main battle tank regiment during that conflict and the announcement of a medal was made within three months of the end of the conflict.

Hugh said: “It is totally unacceptable for the government to delay the award of a medal for service in Iraq. I hope that it is not being done for any political motive.

“Following the 1991 War, the medal was announced extremely quickly. Medals are very important to the Armed Forced as a form of official recognition.

“The government managed, quite rightly, to hurry through awards for the England Rugby Squad. Members of the Armed Forces, who are expected to put their lives on the line should not be treated less well.”