MP raises Arctic convoy veterans’ case

Published on 01/11/2012 00:00

David Cameron was urged yesterday to reverse a decision which is blocking some Second World War veterans from receiving a Russian medal for achievements on Arctic convoys.

Speaking less than a fortnight before Armistice Day, Redcar MP Ian Swales said the Prime Minister must act swiftly to remove the road blocks stopping the Russians awarding the Ushakov medal.

Mr Cameron said a report, ordered earlier this year, was continuing.

Liberal Democrat MP Mr Swales said: “The Russians want to award the prestigious Ushakov medal to Arctic convoy veterans.

“The governments of Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the US have agreed. The UK government has refused.

“Will you get this decision reversed quickly so this dwindling band of veterans get the recognition they so richly deserve?”

Mr Cameron replied: “I have every sympathy with you and that is why we have asked Sir John Holmes to conduct this review, not just into medals in general, but to look specifically at some of the most important cases – of which I think Arctic convoys is probably the most pressing. As you ask, he is getting on with it.”

More than 3,000 seamen died in Operation Dervish, which saw supplies delivered to the Soviet ports of Murmansk and Archangel during the Second World War. The UK government has never recognised veteran survivors with a dedicated campaign medal.