Blair Mayne Posthumous Victoria Cross 2025-04-08

The debate highlights Blair Mayne's actions in rescuing comrades and pushing back enemy forces during World War II. Jim Shannon argues that the decision to deny him a Victoria Cross was based on an administrative mistake, as 'signal' was misread as 'single'. He presents evidence from Brigadier Calvert's report and support from Major General Vokes and Lieutenant Generals Simonds and Crerar, arguing for Blair Mayne’s eligibility for the award.

Supports the debate and expresses that while he was initially unfamiliar with Paddy Mayne, researching and consulting local residents strengthened his belief in restoring justice to Mayne. He acknowledges concerns regarding depiction in media and calls for a formal process ensuring fair decision-making.

Agrees with the need for research and suggests that looking at recognition rules for special forces should be considered to address difficulties in publicly recognising their bravery. He trusts armed forces' adherence to rules of engagement.

Supports the call for a posthumous VC for Blair Mayne, highlighting his courage and leadership in leading numerous raids behind enemy lines. He cites DSO award citations that demonstrate exceptional bravery and leadership during World War II.

As a member of the Backbench Business Committee and a former television screenwriter, Mr. Cartlidge supports the motion to honour Paddy Mayne with a posthumous Victoria Cross. He cites the success of the TV drama 'SAS: Rogue Heroes' as an example of how modern media can educate new generations about historical figures such as Mayne. The script and production highlight the bravery and leadership traits that earned Mayne four DSOs but no Victoria Cross, despite being one of a few recipients with a rare third bar to the DSO.

Ms. Lockhart emphasises Paddy Blair Mayne's exceptional courage and leadership, recognising him as a founding member of the SAS whose actions during World War II changed modern warfare tactics. She argues that despite eyewitness accounts of his bravery, he was denied the Victoria Cross, which she considers an injustice. She urges the Minister to reconsider this case with urgency.

Mr. Pitcher discusses the impact of awarding the Victoria Cross through the example of Corporal John William Harper VC, a local hero from Hatfield Woodhouse who was awarded for his bravery during World War II. He argues that recognising such heroes keeps their legacy alive in communities and schools, urging support for Blair Mayne's recognition with the same honour.

Mr. Cooper acknowledges the controversy surrounding the depiction of Paddy Mayne in media but stresses that the reality is often more about careful planning than reckless action. He supports recognising Mayne's contributions and bravery, highlighting his leadership role in forming the SAS and his numerous DSO awards as evidence of exceptional service.

He praised Major Robert 'Paddy' Mayne for his heroism and dedication. Dr Pinkerton detailed Mayne's service in the Falkland Islands Dependencies Survey, highlighting the strategic importance of this role post-WWII and Mayne’s leadership despite harsh conditions. He urged the Government to award Mayne the Victoria Cross on the 80th anniversary of its recommendation.

He supported the debate, mentioning Winston Churchill's views on medals and emphasised that shining a light on historical cases could lead to a reconsideration. He invited the Minister to review Mayne’s case and award him the Victoria Cross.

She acknowledged the importance of recognising service personnel's contributions. She reminded the House of the criteria for a Victoria Cross, namely 'most conspicuous bravery' or extreme devotion to duty in the face of the enemy. Monica expressed support for reconsidering Mayne’s nomination.

Supports the case for awarding Blair Mayne with a posthumous Victoria Cross. Acknowledges his leadership and bravery but emphasises the need to follow historical facts and an independent medallic recognition process.

Shannon highlighted the case of Paddy Mayne and the importance of acknowledging second world war veterans as they approach their 80th anniversaries. He also mentioned his constituent, Ivor Foster, who is living in a care home at significant cost, emphasising the need to show gratitude to these few remaining individuals.

The Minister emphasised that posthumous gallantry awards should not be granted retrospectively. He acknowledged Lieutenant Colonel Mayne's bravery but noted the principle of timely recognition within five years of an incident. The minister reviewed historical correspondence regarding Mayne’s VC recommendation, suggesting administrative or committee decisions might have influenced award changes.

Thanked all Members for their contributions and shared new information that Blair Mayne served in the Falklands. Look forward to successful conclusion of review by honours and awards committee. Wished every Member a good recess.

Made point of order regarding the change in title for the debate from Easter Adjournment to Matters to be raised before the forthcoming adjournment, expressing concern about the Christian character of the occasion being lost.

Clarified that the titles were determined by the Backbench Business Committee and assured that future debates will reflect Easter and Christmas traditions. Summer recess debate has been renamed the Sir David Amess debate.