asked the Prime Minister to what modal men who have served in Paiforce will be entitled.

The Prime Minister: I should be obliged if my hon. and gallant Friend would repeat this Question this day week.

asked the Prime Minister if he will consider recommending that a reasonable period of service, perhaps 18 months, from 24th August, 1939, shall qualify for the Defence Medal the volunteer veteran members of the Home Defence battalions, many of whom have been prevented from serving for three years by reason of having the age-limit or by reason of ill-health or infirmity.

Such service after 3rd September, 1939, amounting to less than three years and terminated by death due to enemy action on duty or by injuries entitling the candidate to a Wound Stripe qualifies for the Defence Medal. It is not proposed to make any reduction in the qualifying period in favour of those who retired because of ill-health not falling within this definition or on account of age.