VETERANS MAY BE ENTITLED TO WEAR SPECIAL BADGE, SAYS HUHNE

4.32.28pm UTC (GMT +0000) Tue 30th Jan 2007

Eastleigh MP Chris Huhne wants to bring to the attention of all those who served in the UK Armed Forces before 1970 that they might be entitled to a "Veteran's Badge".

A picture of the badge is attached with this press release. The badge is a outward sign of past service that is designed to be worn with civilian clothes.

The following can also qualify: Merchant Navy seamen, Home Guard, Polish Forces under UK command, members of the Cyprus Regiment during WW2, Veterans of the Suez Canal Zone (1951-54) as well as war widows or widowers who receive a War Widows/Widowers Pensions.

The badge cannot be issued posthumously as it is a survivors' badge, which is to be worn on civilian clothing.

Chris Huhne said: "People should have the opportunity to demonstrate their record of service and it is nice equally for the rest of us to show that we do appreciate the risks and the hardships they underwent for our sake."

If anyone in the Eastleigh constituency feels that they might qualify for this badge then they should contact Chris Huhne MP's office on 023 8062 0007, email chris@chrishuhne.org.uk or write to 109a Leigh Road, Eastleigh, SO50 9DR.