asked the Prime Minister whether he will make a statement on the granting of a general service medal to the Forces engaged in Malaya.

This matter is at present under consideration.

I hope the Prime Minister will realise that the country will be disappointed that no decision has yet been arrived at. Does not he agree that the granting of such an award as this would be the best way of showing the men on the spot that their country is not unmindful of their devotion to duty and is grateful for it?

I am waiting for some information from the High Commissioner on certain aspects.

Will the Prime Minister bear in mind that in the past general service medals have been awarded for operations involving far less hardship and far fewer casualties than the operation in Malaya?

Will the right hon. Gentleman give an assurance that this matter is under active consideration?

I have already done so.