Asked by: Lord Triesman (Labour - Life peer)
Question to the Ministry of Defence:
To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the contribution of non-white officers, including Second Lieutenant Walter Tull, to the regular Brisih army in the First world War.
Answered by Earl Howe - Shadow Deputy Leader of the House of Lords
There is a long tradition of Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic individuals serving in the British Armed Forces. They have served with great courage and distinction, and provided an important contribution in defending the UK, both at home and abroad, across many conflicts including the First World War.
At the time of Second Lieutenant Tull's death, the Military Cross could not be awarded posthumously. Although this rule was changed in 1979, this change does not apply retrospectively and there are no plans to change policy. This is in no way a reflection on the bravery and leadership shown by Lieutenant Tull.
Asked by: Lord Triesman (Labour - Life peer)
Question to the Ministry of Defence:
To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they have plans for the posthumous award of the Military Cross to Second Lieutenant Walter Tull, killed on 25 March 1918 during the last German offensive of the First World War.
Answered by Earl Howe - Shadow Deputy Leader of the House of Lords
There is a long tradition of Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic individuals serving in the British Armed Forces. They have served with great courage and distinction, and provided an important contribution in defending the UK, both at home and abroad, across many conflicts including the First World War.
At the time of Second Lieutenant Tull's death, the Military Cross could not be awarded posthumously. Although this rule was changed in 1979, this change does not apply retrospectively and there are no plans to change policy. This is in no way a reflection on the bravery and leadership shown by Lieutenant Tull.