Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The Advisory Military Sub-Committee decided not to recommend service medal awards to British nuclear test veterans, despite their significant contributions and risks.
On what basis the Advisory Military Sub-Committee decided not to recommend service medal awards to British nuclear test veterans. The review by the independent Advisory Military Sub-Committee concluded that it did not meet the level of risk and rigour required for a campaigning medal or class, despite warm rhetoric about their crucial role.
The review by the independent Advisory Military Sub-Committee concluded that it did not meet the level of risk and rigour required for a campaigning medal or class. The Government remain grateful to all who participated, acknowledging their contributions.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific reasons for not meeting the criteria were not provided; only that it does not meet the level of risk and rigour required.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
A constituent wrote about their father who was a veteran of the UK's nuclear test programme in the 1950s, expressing concern that no formal recognition has been provided despite decades of rhetoric.
Our nuclear test veterans were sent to the south Pacific at great risk. They have heard warm rhetoric but lack formal recognition. A constituent wrote about their father who participated in two grapple tests on Christmas Island and passed away without seeing a medal or compensation. Does the Minister share concern that no more veterans should pass away unrecognised?
Their contributions are not unrecognised; we ensure support for those who have become ill as a result of exposure. The review tightened up that support eight months ago, and while the medallic system is outwith Ministers' control, I am determined to continue supporting this cohort.
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Assessment & feedback
The Minister did not address the concern about formal recognition or medals directly; focused on health support instead.
Response accuracy