| Content Note | Topics discussed:
Letters received from the Prince of Wales regarding the unveiling of the Somme Memorial, and from Lady Plumer following her husband’s death. Reports also received about the impact of the earthquake in Salonika; a visit to Gallipoli by the Royal Navy; the proposed unveiling of a Memorial at Port Said by Mr. Hughs, former Prime Minister of Australia; American visitor to Brookwood. A letter had been received asking why the Coat of Arms of the British West Indies was not on the memorial plaques in various cathedrals. Proposed to reply that it was only practical to include the Arms of the United Kingdom and the self-governing Dominions.
Draft Convention With The Iraq Government
The Commission was encouraged to pursue a treaty with the newly independent Kingdom of Iraq, mirroring agreements already made with France, Italy, and Belgium, and a draft was expected following consultations with relevant officials. Mr Spens confirmed the Commission could sign the agreement with approval from the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, and it was suggested that Dominion representatives sign collectively to avoid delays.
United Kingdom Graves (Suggested time limit for registration and responsibility for private memorials)
The Commission discussed its responsibility for 88,000 war graves across the UK, including those not marked by relatives, and acknowledged concerns over the long-term upkeep of private memorials. While voluntary care was deemed impractical, it was proposed to amend the Charter and set a future date to limit the Commission’s obligations, with a press statement to follow.
Letter From The British Empire Service League
Refers to the letter suggesting a symbol to be used on headstones of ex-service men who died after the First World War whose graves were not looked after by the Commission. General opposition but the Commission agreed to ask the League for their suggestions for further consideration.
Report Of The 213th Meeting Of The Finance Committee
Discussion surrounding ‘jours de repos’ certificates issued by Belgian and French doctors to sick staff. It was suggested the 10/- allowance should be restricted to just the first two days of absence, however, the Finance Committee disagreed with this. It was not adopted but might be considered as a last resort. Attention was drawn to a similar procedure with the Colonial Allowance. Sir Archibald Montgomery-Massingberd agreed to submit details of that procedure to the Committee.
Wreaths Laid By Commercial Firms
Discussion about the improper use of the Royal Arms on so-called ‘Rolls of Honour’ produced by commercial firms. One such firm had applied for copies of a large number of registers, presumably for cutting up and sending to families with the Royal Arms attached. The Vice-Chairman had decided not to send any more registers to one man, Mr Cockerell, until he agreed to discontinue the use of the Royal Arms.
Proposed Dedication Of The Gallipoli Cemeteries
For many years, discussions about such services had been discussed, but for many reasons none had taken place. It was now felt that the original objections were no longer valid, and the Ambassador in Turkey had been asked for his view. It was mentioned that the French had held a ceremony of this nature, so a positive reply was hoped for.
Attendees:
Major-General Sir Fabian Ware, K.C.V.O., K.B.E., C.B., C.M.G. (Vice-Chairman, in the Chair)
Colonel W.W. Chitty, C.M.G., C.I.E. (Representing the Secretary of State for India)
Lieut.-Colonel G.P. Vanier, D.S.O., M.C. (Representing the High Commissioner for Canada)
Thomas Trumble, Esq., C.M.G., C.B.E. (Representing the High Commissioner for Australia)
V.G. Housden, Esq. (Representing the High Commissioner for New Zealand)
R. Webster, Esq. (Representing the High Commissioner for South Africa)
J.L. Murphy, Esq. (Representing the High Commissioner for Newfoundland)
Lieut.-General Sir George Macdonogh, G.B.E., K.C.B., K.C.M.G.
Admiral Sir Morgan Singer, K.C.B., K.C.V.O.
General Sir Archibald Montgomery-Massingberd, K.C.B., K.C.M.G
W.P. Spens, Esq., C.B.E., K.C., M.P.
There were also present:
Lieut.-Colonel Sir Frederic Kenyon, G.B.E., K.C.B.
Lieut.-Colonel H.F. Robinson, C.M.G. (Director of Works)
Captain E.J. King, M.C.
Captain H.P.R. Foster
F.C. Sillar, Esq.
B.S. Conyngham Greene, Esq.
F. Tyrrell, Esq. |