Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Lord Lancaster of Kimbolton and Henry Smith

Monday 15th January 2018 Commons Chamber

[Henry Smith (Crawley) (Con)]

11. If he will take steps to further recognise the work of munitions workers during the First and Second World Wars.

[The Minister for the Armed Forces (Mark Lancaster)]

I am sure that the whole House will join me in paying tribute to the thousands who worked in munitions factories during both world wars. They produced vital equipment that helped us to final victory. For practical reasons, it is not possible to pursue individual awards, but the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy would be happy to work with colleagues across the House to look at further ways of recognising the collective effort of former munitions workers.

[Henry Smith]

My constituent Sue Wickstead wrote to me about her aunt, who worked in a munitions factory during the second world war, and I urge my hon. Friend to work with BEIS to ensure that munitions workers are properly commemorated for their bravery on behalf of our country’s freedom.

[Mark Lancaster]

I am delighted to say that we are already in negotiations with the Department and will happily pursue that work.