EAST HAMPSHIRE MP Michael Mates has won his battle for war heroes to be presented with jubilee medals.
Mr Mates announced this week that the Government had bowed to pressure and backed down on its Òmean-mindedÓ decision not to award the jubilee medal to holders of the Victoria Cross and the George Cross.
He said they had always been recipients of previous coronation and jubilee medals in recognition of their special status as the most gallant of men and women.
Mr Mates raised the matter in the House of Commons earlier this year and the Prime Minister told him he would look into the matter.
This week Mr Mates said it was clear that the Prime Minister had Òknocked heads togetherÓ and backed the Ministry of Defence, which had also pressed for the special status of Victoria Cross and George Cross holders to be acknowledged.
ÒThis overdue decision has had to be dragged out of the Government but I congratulate them for eventually doing the right thing,Ó said Mr Mates.
ÒNot to have recognised these special people would have been an insult to their bravery and the sacrifice they have made to their country.
Ò I am delighted to have been able to play a part in bringing about this change in policy.Ó