Medals review may give hope to convoy heroes

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

The review, led by former diplomat Sir John Holmes, will look at the principles behind the granting of medals, as well as the way in which retrospective claims for medals for previous service are handled by the authorities.

It may raise fresh hopes among veterans of the Arctic Convoys, who have long campaigned for official recognition of their bravery maintaining supplies to Russia during the Second World War.

However, officials said Sir John’s report, to be published in the summer, is likely to focus on the general principles.

Among the issues to be considered are the operation of the Committee on the Grant of Honours, Decorations and Medals – the HD committee – which reports to the Queen on recommendations for the creation of new campaign awards.

Sir John will examine the rationale for the five-year rule, which bars consideration of the creation of a new medal within five years of the conclusion of a military operation.