Fresh push for medal to honour Arctic effort

Prime Minister David Cameron launched an independent review of the rules governing the award of military campaign medals earlier this month.

However, the review is expected to focus on more general principles.

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 government has so far not recognised the survivors of the convoys with a dedicated campaign medal.

Mr Brown is set to meet some of the survivors this week.

He said: “Serving aboard the Arctic convoys must have demanded huge courage and dedication.

“These men faced the dangers of U-boats and air attack in some of the worst weather conditions on the planet.

“Yet, through unwavering service to their country, these heroes ensured that absolutely crucial supplies reached Russia. Without their efforts, Russia could easily have become cut off and the whole outcome of the war could have been different.

“It is a scandal that these men have not been recognised with a campaign medal.

“On Tuesday, I will meet Scottish Arctic convoy veterans at a reception we have organised in Glasgow. I have little doubt it will be an inspiring event, and a chance for Scotland to say thank you to these men who served their country in a time of crisis.

“The UK government must now follow suit.

“A campaign medal is the least these heroes and their families deserve. I have written to the UK government on this issue in the past, now is the time for them to listen and act.”