VerbatimParliament, as it happens

Reserve Forces: Long Service Awards

Asked by Olivia BlakeLabourMinistry of DefenceTabled Answered 30 June 2026UIN 12566

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment his Department has made of the adequacy of current eligibility criteria for long‑service medallic recognition for former Volunteer Reserve personnel who completed service prior to 1 April 1999; and if he will review options for retrospective recognition.

Answered by Mr Calvin Bailey

Prior to the introduction of the Volunteer Reserves Service Medal in April 1999, service in the Reserve Forces was appropriately recognised by the separate decorations and medals that were awarded respectively to officers and other ranks in each of the Services. The Department has no plans to review options for retrospective recognition for those who served in the Reserve Forces before 1 April 1999.

Verbatim has judged this answer against the question that was actually asked — answered, partly answered, or evaded. Sign in to see the verdict →

Open this question in Verbatim →

Every written question, searchable

155,000 questions tabled since the election, with the answer each department gave — and the ones still unanswered, with the clock running. Free to search.

Search written questions →Read on Verbatim