Once Navy Always Navy

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HEADQUARTERS ROLL
NEWSLETTER
APRIL 2008

Proof of Service Cards

Our records show that some cards will require updating in 2008.  Please contact Mrs Noeline Lee in HQ (0207-352-6764) to obtain a new card.

The Royal Naval Association Yearbook for 2008

Because of an unprecedented number of changes to Branch Officials, the 2008 Year Book has been slightly delayed.  It will be despatched separately to Shipmates who have ordered it as soon as it received from the printers.

The Carrier Debate – An input from the Royal Naval Association National President
On 24th February 2008, The Sunday Times published an article by Simon Jenkins entitled :
“ Lovely new aircraft carrier sir, but we’re fighting in the desert……….”
This prompted your National President to respond in the following terms.
25 February 2008
An Open Letter to Simon Jenkins putting the record straight on Carriers
Dear Mr Jenkins,
In the Sunday Times of 24 February you made some surprising and inaccurate assertions. Firstly that in 1997 Labour inherited from the Tories projects for new aircraft carriers, their frigate escorts and a replacement for Trident and made them sacred cows in the 1998 Strategic Defence Review. None were then in the Defence Programme. New frigates although a project for them is urgently needed aren’t in the programme now. You refer to the Army’s need for more battlefield helicopters and seem not to realise that they are provided by the Navy and the RAF. What you call the old Spanish practice of buggin’s turn between Army, Navy and Air Force as Chief of the Defence Staff ended more than 10 years ago. But it is where you assert that “every modern British war is fought by the Army (even the Falklands)...” that you not only talk self contradictory nonsense ( forgive a blunt sea dog)  but also become offensive. Not just to all the members of the Association of which I have the honour to be President but above all, to the bereaved of the 130 officers and men of the Royal Navy, Royal Marines, Royal Fleet Auxiliary and Merchant Navy who constituted more than half of those who gave their lives. Surely you remember who wrote the following: “the officers and men of the Royal Navy showed that they had lost nothing of the courage, superb seamanship and fighting skill that their service has demonstrated throughout its history”?  It was you and your co-author Max Hastings in your book The Battle for the Falklands. You are also perhaps unaware that last year more than half of the UK Armed Forces in Afghanistan were from the Navy and Royal Marines and that will again be the case later this year. But it is where you suggest: “there is always upward pressure on naval spending...” and that Britain is buying weapons of little or no relevance Carriers, destroyers, frigates and submarines..”. that your inaccuracy becomes dangerously misleading.. 7 Destroyers and Frigates and several mine countermeasures vessels beyond the numbers defined as necessary in the Strategic Defence Review have already been paid off to balance the Defence Budget’s books. The Sea Harrier (Europe’s best fighter aircraft until the Typhoon arrived) has also gone in response to financial pressure leaving the UK unable to repeat a Falklands campaign until the new Carriers and their aircraft are in service. The Royal Navy is saving hundreds of officer posts by merging its Personnel, Training and Fleet Commands in a fashion yet to be matched by the other Services in order to provide for more spending on other Defence priorities.
Let me recall for you some further passages from your book: “Britain was reminded of the cost of being overwhelmingly scenario orientated.... to North West Europe”  and “For the hundredth time in her history, Britain was reminded that there is always an unexpected military threat which defence planning must be flexible enough to provide for..” Do you really now think we should devote our defence provision to the single scenario of an anti terrorist operation in the deserts of Central Asia? RN Carriers and their aircraft weren’t just vital for the Falklands. They have participated in all the UK’s recent major operations including Afghanistan, Bosnia, Kosovo, Sierra Leone and the invasion of Iraq. The new carriers will transform UK Defence capability.  They will be 4 acres of British sovereign territory  , mobile at 500 miles per day to avoid overflight , weather and basing restrictions and capable of projecting RN and RAF air power or humanitarian relief on a scale not previously available crucially at a time and space of our choice, free from the potential encumbrance of host nation support. They are needed to meet the real threat of a chaotic and dangerous world developing over the next decades, not least within the context of possibly irreversible climate change and ever-increasing competition for resources among a rapidly expanding population.
The CVF is one of the first big programmes to follow the new SMART procurement practices.  The time and cost taken in de-risking it, and clarifying the requirement,  has ensured that we are looking at realistic costs and timescales. It even had an independent financial review  from Deloittes.  It is a project that is based on a comprehensive operational requirement, articulated in the SDR and constantly reiterated since.  There is sufficient money available in the equipment programme.  Industry has been fully engaged and the very survival of large parts of high-tech design and engineering within the UK depend on it.  Perhaps we can at least agree that it will be a poor show If the Government, MOD Ministers and the Defence Management Board fail to deliver after all this preparation, clear public announcements of intent and direction of huge staff effort?
Yours sincerely,
John McAnally
Advertisement for a Deputy General Secretary for the Royal Naval Association

As part of the Association’s strategy for relocation to Portsmouth, the National Council have    authorised placement of the following advertisement in various publications and have also notified the Employment Liaison Officer (Naval), the Naval Resettlement Information Officer and the White Ensign Association of the requirement. 

Deputy General Secretary – The Royal Naval Association

The Royal Naval Association (a long established Membership Association founded by Royal Charter and with Registered Charity Status) is looking for a Deputy to its General Secretary (Chief Executive) to start by early summer 2008 and both to set up a new Headquarters following the Association’s decision to relocate and to help evolve the Association’s links with the Royal Navy and its veterans in the 21st century.  A competitive salary with attractive benefits is offered.

As a successful applicant you will be have broad based administrative skills (including being IT literate), be motivated to support the charity’s 25,000 members, have experience of the Royal Navy and be in sympathy with the Association.  This will be a busy appointment ; enthusiasm for responsibility, a good sense of humour and the ability to manage subordinate members of staff are essential.  You will also deputise for the General Secretary.
 
The Association is updating its image and this appointment includes regular contact with the membership (with some travel to branch events, including abroad); responsibility for the Association’s correspondence and publications; Conference and Event Planning; Office Management and the formulation and delivery of some training. 
The Royal Naval Association website is at www.royal-naval-association.co.uk.
Interested applicants should forward a letter of application, CV and the names of two referees to The General Secretary, The Royal Naval Association, 82 Chelsea Manor Street, London SW3 5QJ by 16th May 2008.

Portman Building Society – Merger with the Nationwide – Cautionary Tale

The Portman Building Society, which had a number of RNA Branches as customers,   merged with the Nationwide Building Society in 2007 and declared bonus payments to existing customers.  On Branches requesting their bonus payments they were informed by Portman/Nationwide that a consolidated corporate bonus payment would be made to RNA Headquarters in respect of all the accounts held by RNA Branches and wrote to HQ informing the General Secretary of this.  The General Secretary responded that RNA HQ had never had an account with The Portman Building Society and that individual bonuses were due to those Branches holding individual accounts – this view was supported by recent guidance from the Charity Commission which stated inter alia “Branches of the Royal Naval Association in England and Wales are self governing; each Branch has a trustee body and produces its own accounts.  This qualifies them as charities in their own right and separately registerable”.  The Portman/Nationwide were notified of this guidance but refused to accept it,, stating that their solicitors took the view that notwithstanding the Association’s Constitution they were treating the many RNA Branch Accounts as one Corporate Account which would be due one bonus.

The Portman/Nationwide have said they will send RNA HQ a cheque for £160-00 (£200 less £40 tax) in final settlement to the Association.  The General Secretary has instructed HQ Staff not to accept any cheque from Portman/Nationwide in this regard since the HQ is not and never has been an account holder with them,  and the Building Society has been so informed.  They have indicated that they intend to continue in their interpretation of the facts as they see it – we appear to have a Mexican standoff.  The bonuses due to individual account holders (Branches)  are considerably more than the Society has offered and The General Secretary considers that the actions of the Portman/Nationwide are perverse and cynical.  The costs of taking legal action against the Portman/Nationwide are likely to be such that the Association will be unable to afford to do so,  however efforts continue to break the log jam.  In the meanwhile, Shipmates maintaining accounts with Portman/Nationwide may wish to consider whether they wish to continue their relationship with that organization. 

The Royal Naval Association Website

The Royal Naval Association website has now been uploaded to http://www.royal-naval-association.co.uk/.  The Association webmaster is S/M Chris Hore - chris@delabole.com.  The Royal Charter, Rules and Bye-Laws of the Association are now included on the website for ease of reference as are other specialist guidance publications.  Other pertinent information will be added as time permits.

e-MAIL ADDRESSES

RNA HQ Staff are attempting to build a library of e-mail addresses within the Association.  It would be extremely helpful if those HQ Roll Members able to communicate by e-mail would forward a short e-message to HQ on noeline@royalnavalassoc.com so that registration can begin.

Gift Aid
Following the change from covenanting to Gift Aid, we have somehow lost momentum. The number of Gift Aid forms, from a membership of 27,680 stands at a modest 3,500.  May we remind you that this is free money, which has helped us to maintain our annual subscription at  £10.00.  A blank Gift Aid form is included with this Newsletter at Annex A.  Once completed, a Gift Aid Declaration lasts until it is rescinded.  Thank you.
Navy News Subscriptions - Price Increase and Special Offers for New Subscribers

The cover price of The Navy News recently increased to £1-80 per issue which is the first increase for 3 years following a large rise in the cost of printing and distribution.  However,. The Navy News is offering a special deal for annual subscribers with a subscription of £18-00 for 12 issues including postage and packing - the Navy News comes though your letterbox at a very reduced rate.   The cover price saving is £3-60 before considering postage and packing - for Overseas please phone 02392-734448 for Airmail prices or contact subscriptions@navynews.co.uk. See the offer each month in The Navy News.

Battle of the Atlantic Weekend 2008- Londonderry

The Londonderry Branch of The Royal Naval Association is hosting A Battle of the Atlantic Weekend in Londonderry on 3rd and 4th May 2008 and would welcome participation by other RNA Branches.  The planned programme is:

SATURDAY 3rd MAY

1300 Depart Queens Quay in Toucan One for Wreath Casting Ceremony on Lough Foyle.
1700 (approx) Return to Queens Quay.
1930 Assemble at White Horse Hotel, Campsie.
Battle of the Atlantic Dinner at 2000.

SUNDAY 4th MAY

1030    Parade musters The Services Club, Spencer Road, Londonderry
1045    Parade marches off.
1100    Parade arrives All Saints’ Church, Clooney (All to be seated by 1115).
1230    March off to Services Club, Salute will be taken en route.
1315    (Approx) Light refreshments will be served.

THE ABOVE PROGRAMME IS SUBJECT TO ALTERATION SHOULD CIRCUMSTANCES REQUIRE CHANGE.

Should any Shipmate wish to join us they should contact the Honorary Secretary of the Londonderry Branch:

 S/M F J Brown 4 Myrtlefield Road, Kilfennan, Londonderry BT47 5PG Tel:  02871-291795

25th Anniversary Dinner of Woking Branch of the Royal Naval Association on Saturday 10th May 2008 at The Holiday Inn, Victoria Way, Woking : 1830 for 1930

The Shipmates of the Woking Branch are holding a 25th Anniversary Dinner to celebration being in commission from 1983 to 2008 and all are welcome to participate.  The cost is £23-00 per head for a three course dinner, pleasant company, selected bitter beer at £1-80 per pint and a “Splice the Mainbrace” with a double tot of rum.  There will be wine on the table and this can be replenished when it runs out with a replenishment discount of 15%.

For those wishing to stay overnight,  the Branch have negotiated a special rate with The Holiday Inn of a Double Room with Breakfast for £69-00 – those wishing to stay should make the arrangements direct with the hotel – Telephone 01483-221111 FAX 01483-221038.  There is no parking at the hotel, however there is a car park adjacent to the hotel in Victoria Way; this costs £1 but will be validated if presented at Reception and parking thus is free.

The Shipmates of Woking look forward to a splendid evening (speeches will be kept to a minimum) and to welcoming all Shipmates and their partners who are able to attend.  BOOK EARLY TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT.  Contact either :

            S/M Ian Fraser  -  01932-344501 or
            S/M Rod Fraser – 01932-349928

Exodus 1947

ARCTIC CONVOY VETERANS - SHORT NOTICE EVENT

Eugene Kasevin is organising the celebration of Russian 9 May VE Day onboard HMS BELFAST and wishes to contact British Veterans of the Arctic Convoys who have received the Russian Arctic Medal.  He would also like to hear from those who are entitled to the medal but who did not, for any reason, receive it.  The celebration on 9th May will also include a number of Russian Veterans.  If you wish to go or think you are entitled, please contact Eugene Kasevin on 0207-256-3912 of by e-mail at ekasevin@interfax.co.uk.

Normandy RN/RM Memorial - Annual Service of Remembrance

A Service of Remembrance will be held in Ouistreham in France at 1145 on Friday 6th June 2008 in honour of the crews of the Landing Vessels (ships, craft and barges) which took part in the D-Day Landings in June 1944 and afterwards, till the end of World War Two in May 1945.  The Service will be held opposite the entrance to la gare maritime (Portsmouth-Caen Ferries Service) and will be conducted by the Reverend Martin Evans RN;  the parade will be under the operational control of 1 Assault Group Royal Marines.  All are welcome : groups, individuals, families and friends and especially Standards.   Contact Maurice Hillebrandt MBE on 01395-442800 or e-mail: hillebrandt@btopenworld.com

Dorchester Branch of the Royal Naval Association – Veterans Day

Dorchester’s Veterans Day - on Sunday 29 June 2008 - will start at 1100 with a parade of Veterans – WWII to Iraq/Afghanistan, including the TA - in the town centre.  In the afternoon a concert will take place in the Borough Gardens with performances by the Wessex Military Band, the Weymouth Accordion Band and The Thomas Hardye School Orchestra.  There will be stalls in the Gardens demonstrating how veterans contribute to  the community and showing the support available to veterans.  The Keep Military Museum will be open, free to children, and veterans will be available to discuss their experiences. 

The Maidstone Branch of the Royal Naval Association will be holding its Annual Sea Service on Sunday 20th July 2008, celebrating 20 years of this event and also the 60th Anniversary of its Commissioning.  Additionally, the Branch will be laying up its Standard.  All are welcome and details of this event are available from the Honorary Secretary, S/M David Fiander on 01622-202995.

The Association of Wrens

The Association of Wrens is still having FUN! It was formed in 1920 by a group of ex-Wrens who felt that both the friendships they had made and the spirit of the Service should be kept alive. Now many years later that same ideal is upheld by approximately 7000 women in an Association where no distinction is made between ranks, just a determination to enjoy something unique and worthwhile.  All our members receive ‘The Wren’ magazine, posted to their home,  three times a year. This features a variety of news, comments and photos contributed from women across the decades, and also from  those women who are currently serving in the RN today. It’s a good resource for finding out about special  events, such as the next National Reunion which will be held in York in August 2008 where we hope at least 1200 members will gather together for a wonderful weekend.

We are very pleased that many RN and ex-RN women have shown an interest in the Association and believe that our upgraded website may reassure those who believed  that the Association belonged exclusively to previous generations. In turn, our veterans  have welcomed the genuine interest and affection shown to them whilst being escorted around ships or establishments, and fully appreciate the  lively contributions made by RN women members to the magazine.

We are very pleased to be given the opportunity to appear in RNA publications, believing  that we have a common interest in working towards the best interests of those who have served, and who are currently serving in both the WRNS, and the RN.  If you, or someone known to you, would like further information or perhaps a complimentary Wren magazine, please let us know.

Contact HQ 0207 932 0111
wrensassoc@aol.com or visit www.wrens.org.uk

ASSOCIATION OF WRENS

National Reunion at York

22-24 August 2008
Friday Evening Welcome Buffet

Saturday RM Assn. Band Concert & Re-dedication

Socialising - goods stalls - photo display

York visitor trips optional

Good accommodation on campus

Expecting over 1,000 members, why not join us?

REUNION HOTLINE 01489 505226

Not a member? Not a problem, contact 0207 9320111 wrensassoc@aol.com   www.wrens.org.uk

Serving RN Women especially welcome!

Friends of HMS VIDAL

The 2008 reunion of The Friends of HMS VIDAL will be held at   The Burlington Palm Hotel, North Drive, Great Yarmouth, Norfolk NR30 1EG on 6th September 2008.  Please contact David Parker, 28 The Sanctuary, Green Lane, Morden, Surrey CM4 5NX (Tel :  0208-648-0160) for full details.

HMS MATCHLESS  Association 1942-46 (including other “M” Class Destroyers of the Flotilla)

Shipmates from the first and second commission of the above are welcome to attend the 22nd Annual Reunion of the Association which will take place on 20th September 2008 in The Union Jack Club, London.  Contact J Horton at 10 Finch Court,  Coles Close, Ongar, Essex CM5 OAY (Tel : 01277-366617).

HMS ULSTER 1958-60 Commission – 50th and Final Re-union

The 50th Anniversary and Final Re-union will take place between 24-27 October 2008 at the Kistor Hotel, Torquay.  Booking forms and full details can be obtained from Reg Ralph, 20 Penhale Road, Eastbourne, East Sussex BN22 7JX (Tel :  01323-725978) e-mail rejoice@milnet.co.uk

Falklands War – Commemorative Covers

An enthusiastic philatelist has manufactured a set of commemorative covers, each one date cancelled 25 years on from the actual date of the event.  The series was originally to number 25 but the addition of the Fox Bay surrender made the actual number 26.  These covers are available at a cost of £65-00 for the set (including the cost of airmail despatch) from :

Phil Middleton
Falkland Collectibles
PO Box 146
Stanley
Falkland Islands
South Atlantic FIQQ 1ZZ,

An RNA Contact in Florida

S/M Margaret Tedrick is well  known  to many in  the Royal Naval Association since she attends Conference each year without fail,  being a member of the Long Beach Branch which is the only RNA Branch in USA.  Although Margaret is a member of Long Beach she actually lives some 3,000 miles away in Florida just north of Daytona Beach, and would be
glad to meet RNA members informally when they are visiting Florida.  S/M Margaret and her husband live at :

            226 N Nova Road
            Ormond Beach
            Florida 32174

            Tel : 386-323-9043
 
The Royal Naval Benevolent Trust – Pembroke House – A High Quality Care and Nursing Home

Pembroke House is a care home situated in Gillingham, Kent and is run by the Royal Naval Benevolent Trust (RNBT).  The home caters for residential and nursing care needs of those who have served as ratings in the Royal Navy or as other ranks in the Royal Marines and their spouses.

The Commission for Social Care Inspectorate has awarded its highest accolade to Pembroke House in recognition of the home setting and maintaining the highest standards of care. The home provides care for the elderly frail but is not registered for the mentally infirm, particular those suffering from dementia.

Pembroke House has 49 beds with 19 allocated for nursing care on a dedicated floor. It stands in fine landscaped grounds with a panoramic view overlooking the River Medway. The home is tastefully decorated on a nautical theme and all rooms are single and have en-suite facilities.

The home has an excellent relationship within the local community and Chatham Historic Dockyard.  It also maintains strong ties with the Royal Naval Association, several branches of which regularly visit the home and in turn invite the residents to their meetings and social events that include BBQs in the home’s lovely walled garden.

Fees for FY ‘07/’08 range from £368.00 to £399.00 for residential care and £557.00 to £652.00 for nursing to reflect the level of care required; packages are tailored to each individual and are subject to regular review as needs change.  Pembroke House is most definitely not a ‘one size fits all’ care home!  Both self-funding and Social Services funded residents are accommodated provided the fees are topped up where there is a shortfall in local authority funding.  The Trust’s policy is not to match any shortfalls in funding on the basis that its charitable funds are utilised to provide the highest standards of care and facility within the home at rates that are below the market average.  Fees are revised annually.

The Trust only employs staff with the right combination of skills and caring attitude.  The home is equipped to the highest standards and prides itself on its bright and airy environment with a dedicated staff who assist residents in enjoying a full, independent and active life.

For more details contact the Home Manager on 01634 852431 or e-mail to enquiry@pembrokehouse-rnbt.org.uk ; further details may also be found on the RNBT’s web site www.rnbt.org.uk/

A Proposed RNA Trip to New Zealand - February/March 2009

Attached to this Newsletter at Annex B are details of the proposed RNA tour to New Zealand in March next year.  The minimum group number is 30 and while the current maximum is 45, if there is enough interest shown then it may be possible to organise a second tour. This all-inclusive tour (from Heathrow and return) means that the only additional expense is for your own travel/medical insurance, within NZ departure taxes - International NZ$25 and Rotorua Domestic NZ$5, together with items of a personal nature such as beverages, laundry, telephone, personal purchases etc. 

This trip is similar to the very successful Association of Wrens 2006 tour and is organised by the same company – C R (Ron) McPhail Ltd, based in New Zealand. Ron has been organising tours to New Zealand for parties from all over the world since 1992, most recently from China, Sweden, Czech Republic and the UK.  Ron has lived in NZ all his life and has Royal New Zealand Navy connections in that his father, Surgeon Captain McPhail was Medical Officer on HMNZS LEANDER in World War II and later Director of Naval Medical Services.

The co-organiser is Mrs Christina Edwards, who again organises tours throughout the world for groups from many countries.  She is the long-time organiser of the successful Association of Wrens Overseas tours, normally 3 or 4 a year.  She and Ron organised the 2006 Association of Wrens tour to NZ.  In 2007 the Wrens visited Madeira, Greece and the Greek Islands, and Apulia (Italy); while this year they are off to Tenerife in February, South Africa in March, Sardinia in May, and the South of France in September. 

Additional copies of the itinerary and booking form should be produced locally and completed booking forms returned to be received in HQ Offices no later than Wednesday, 28 May 2008.

It should be noted that very few single hotel accommodation rooms are available – single room supplement is £500.  If you are willing to share a room please indicate this on the booking form and you will be put in touch with a.n.other also willing to share.  This does not commit you to sharing with that, or another, person, but may increase you chances of being on the tour.

DON’T MISS OUT ON GOVERNMENT CASH – ADVICE FROM THE NATIONAL WELFARE ADVISER – S/M RITA LOCK

26.       Too many pensioners are missing out on money which is rightfully theirs so we urge all  members or their family members who may be over 60 to check their entitlements.
The Citizens Advice Bureaux offer free confidential benefits checks to all pensioners.
These  benefits include:

Pension Credit
Council Tax Benefit
Housing Benefit
Disability Benefits such as Attendance Allowance.

Most of these, except Housing Benefit, cannot be back-dated so if you delay claiming you have lost that portion of your entitlement  for good.

Pension Credit.
This is a weekly means tested pension top-up guaranteeing a basic weekly income for people aged 60 and over.  The following figures became effective on April 6th 2008.

Eligibility
Single  people with an income lower than £124.05 or couples below £189.35.
The credit raises their income to these minimum levels.
After the age of 65, single pensioners with modest savings may be rewarded with an extra £19.71 a week, or £26.13 for couples.
The severely disabled, carers and people who still make mortgage repayments can sometimes claim even if their income is higher than those stated.

How to apply;
Call 0800 99 1234. lines are open Monday to Friday between 8am and 8pm and Saturdays 9am to 1pm.
Have your National Insurance number ready plus any information on income savings and investments.
If required,  claims staff will complete your application form over the phone for you and then post it to your home for you to check and sign.  It is a free phone number so time spent will not cost you.
You can also go on line at www.thepensionservice.gov.uk

Council Tax Benefit

Financial help towards your council tax bills.

Eligibility.
Council taxpayers on a low income whether tenants or home-owners.  You can claim even if you already receive the 25% single person’s discount.
The amount you get depends on your age, income, state benefits and dependants.
You cannot claim if you have more than £16,000 savings.

How to apply

If you claim pension credit, income support or job seekers allowance, you should automatically receive a council tax benefit claim form, otherwise contact your local council.
Tip: The Pension Service on 0800 99 1234 can help you apply for council tax benefit when you apply for pension credit.

Housing Benefit

This is Benefit paid by councils to help towards rent payment. Also called rent rebate or rent allowance.

Eligibility
You must be paying rent and living on a low income and have less than £16,000 savings.
How much you get depends on age, income, state benefits and disability.  Claims can be back-dated for up to 52 weeks if you had a good reason for not claiming earlier, such as bad advice.
There are various ways these payments are made depending on the individual circumstances of tenancy.

How to Apply:
Contact your local social security office or look for the Benefits Agency advert in the business section of the phone book or on www.dwp.gov.uk/localoffice
Once again the Pension Service on 0800 99 1234 can help pensioners make a housing benefit claim when they apply for pension credit.

Winter Fuel Allowance

People over 60 who have not had a winter fuel payment should check their entitlement.  Most pensioners automatically receive the £200 payment or £300 for those over 80, but some must make a claim, notably men aged between 60 and 65 who are still working.

Extra payments for those with a disability or an illness.

Attendance Allowance (AA) and Disability Living Allowance (DLA) are Benefits aimed at helping disabled people with the cost of care. People over 65 can claim AA if they need physical help with personal care because they physically or mentally disabled.  The under 65’s should claim DLA instead.  Neither payment is means tested and will not affect your entitlement to other benefits.  AA is paid at two rates depending on your disability, £43.15 or £64.50 a week.  DLA is split into two parts, the care component and the mobility component.  You might be able to claim both.

To apply for any of these payments, phone the Benefit Enquiry line on 0800 88 22 00 8.30am to 6.30pm on Monday to Friday and 9am to 1pm on Saturday.
If you are struggling to fill in the form the Benefit Enquiry line can arrange for someone to help you.

Savings and Tax

If you do have savings try to ensure that they are in an ISA (tax free) or a higher savings account.  If you do not pay tax then speak to an adviser at your bank or building society to avoid paying tax on the interest.  If you have been paying tax unnecessarily you can claim some of this back by calling your tax office and asking for a tax rebate form.

Understandably, most people assume the Revenue know your age.  If you are over 65, contact your Tax Office to check you are benefiting from the age-related allowance.
The good news is that if you have not used your allowance, you can backdate claims for overpaid tax for five years.

Gift Aid

As outlined above, you can get help completing many of the necessary forms.  The only form you need to complete yourself if you are a tax payer,  is the Gift Aid form to the RNA.  This means that your Association can claim the tax back on your subscriptions,  thus helping to keep them at the current level.  Rest assured that there is NO invasion of your privacy or inspection of your financial affairs by the Revenue (HMRC) so please do help by completing the Gift Aid form available from your Branch Secretary.

History Notes

 1 April 1859........................ Captain  Mansfield Cumming born.  Founder and first Director in 1909 of the Secret Service Bureau, later MI6 and the Secret Intelligence Service.  His code name C and use of green ink adopted  by all later Directors of the Secret Intelligence Service. 
1 April 1998......................... The Reverend Dr Charles Edward Stewart, Church of Scotland Minister, appointed first non-Anglican Chaplain of the Fleet.
2 April 1931......................... Appointment of first aviation Flag Officer : Rear Admiral R G H Henderson appointed Rear Admiral Aircraft Carriers.
3 April 1919......................... Admiral Sir John Jellicoe and Admiral Sir David Beatty both promoted Admiral of the Fleet.  An Order in Council was made to effect these promotions because there were no vacancies in the authorised establishment of three. Beatty was aged 48 and an Order in Council had been required to secure his promotion to Rear Admiral when he was 38.
5 April 1957......................... CENTURION commissioned at Haslemere as the Central Drafting Authority.
7 April 1919......................... The Grand Fleet paid off,  to be replaced by The Home, Atlantic and Mediterranean Fleets.
9 April 1982......................... P&O Liner CANBERRA, taken up from trade, sailed from Southampton, with most of 3 Cdo Bde embarked, for the South Atlantic.  Operation Corporate.
11 April 1939....................... Mrs (later Dame) Vera Laughton Matthews appointed Direct WRNS, which was reconstituted next day.  She was the former WRNA Unit Officer at Crystal Palace Training Depot 1918-1919.
15 April 1942....................... Malta awarded the George Cross.  The only award of the GC that was not gazetted, and the first awarded to a body corporate rather than to an  individual.
16 April 1992....................... UNICORN launched at Birkenhead, the last diesel submarine built for the RN and the last warship built by Cammell Laird.
18 April 1947....................... RN detonated 7,000 tons of explosives beneath Heligoland to demolish fortifications.  “The greatest non-atomic explosion in history” – The Times.
20 April 1949....................... AMETHYST fired on by Communist PLA Batteries in Yangtze River east of Nanking.  Opening of the Yangtze Incident.
22 April 1966....................... HM The Queen extended to Chief and Petty Officers the privilege of drinking the Sovereign’s health seated.
25 April 1945....................... VENTURER recalled from last submarine patrol in home waters in Second World War.
28 April 1789....................... The Mutiny on the BOUNTY.
29 April 1802....................... Marines styled “Royal Marines” BY George III for meritorious service.
30 April 1956....................... Blue Caps worn for the last time.
1 May 1891.......................... Gunnery School on Whale Island commissioned as EXCELLENT.
3 May 1977.......................... INVINCIBLE, first of class, launched at Vickers, Barrow by HM The Queen.
5 May 1962.......................... Submarine OCELOT launched, the last RN warship built at Chatham.  Now preserved in  Chatham Historic Dockyard.
7 May 1909.......................... Admiralty tender for first airship, HMA1 signed.  Christened or nicknamed MAYFLY, but didn’t.
8 May 1861.......................... Board of Admiralty approved Controller’s submission that all ships building or to be built should be armoured: end of “wooden walls”.
10 May 1945........................ First U-boat surrendered – U-1009.  Some 156 surrendered in all, of which 110 were sunk; 221 had been scuttled to avoid surrender. Operation Pledge.
12 May 1797........................ Start of the Spithead Mutiny.
14 May 1829........................ Admiral Francis Beaufort (Beaufort Scale) appointed Hydrographer.
16 May 1966........................ Devonport Dockyard base passenger train service ceased.
19 May 1797........................ First recorded “splicing of the mainbrace” as a reward for arduous exertion in CUMBERLAND (Captain Rowley).
20 May 1931........................ Rank of Mate discontinued : all men promoted from lower deck to be appointed Sub Lieutenants.
 23 May 1941....................... HM Ships KASHMIR and KELLY sunk during the battle for Crete.
26 May 1940........................ Start of the evacuation from Dunkirk – Operation Dynamo – lasted until 4 June.
28 May 1915........................ Admiral Sir Henry Jackson succeeded Admiral of the Fleet Lord Fisher as First Sea Lord following Fisher’s resignation over the Dardanelles debacle.
31 May 1945........................ First class of Leading Patrolmen completed course at Beechwood Camp, Plymouth. 
1 June 1794........................ “The Glorious First of June” – Admiral Earl Howe (QUEEN CHARLOTTE) defeated Rear Admiral Villaret-Joyeuse (MONTAGNE) to the west of Ushant.
2 June 1981........................ ARK ROYAL, fifth warship and fourth aircraft carrier of the name, launched by HM The Queen Mother at Swan Hunter, Wallsend.
4 June 1914........................ Ruling by Board of Admiralty that the Wardroom Officers were to stand for the National Anthem but to remain seated for the Loyal Toast.
6 June 1944........................ D-Day. 6,833 ships took part in the operation comprising 1,212 warships, 4,026 landing ships and craft, 731 ancillaries and 864 merchant vessels.    
8 June 1915........................ Rosyth Dockyard opened by King George V.
11 June 1847...................... Sir John Franklin naval officer and Arctic explorer died on his ill-fated expedition in EREBUS and TERROR to find the North West Passage.  While his fate was still uncertain, he was promoted to Read Admiral in 1852.  When it was ascertained that he had died earlier, the Admiralty annulled the promotion.
14 June 1970...................... ARK ROYAL embarked the first Phantoms – 12 aircraft of 892 NAS.
15 June 1968...................... Polaris era in RN began – RESOLUTION sailed on her first patrol.
20 June 1944...................... Captain Frederick John Walker awarded third bar to his DSO.  His HSD (Higher Submarine Detector) PO W H “Darby” Kelly was awarded an equally exceptional third bar to his DSM.
22 June 1937...................... RN Photographic Branch established.
25 June 1975...................... SALISBURY completed the last Beira Patrol.
28 June 1977...................... Silver Jubilee Review of the Fleet at Spithead by HM The Queen.
30 June 1964...................... Royal Naval Armament Depot ,  Mombasa closed.   

James McClurg
General Secretary

ANNEX A

GIFT  AID  DECLARATION

ROYAL NAVAL ASSOCIATION

Title .....   Forename(s) .................................          Surname ................…………….
Address         ........................................................    (Area no; ---------)
                        ........................................................
                        ........................................................ Post Code .............

            I want the charity to treat all donations I have made from the date of this declaration until I notify you otherwise as Gift Aid Donations

Signature:-  ..................................................           

Date:- ................................................………

Notes

1.         If your declaration covers donations you may make in the future:
.  Please notify the charity if you change your name or address while the declaration is still in force.
.   You can cancel the declaration at any time by notifying the charity - it will then not apply to donations you make on or after the date of cancellation or such later date as you specify.

2.         You must pay an amount of income tax and/or capital gains tax at least equal to the tax that the charity reclaims on your donations in the tax year (currently 25p for each £1 you give). 

3.         If in the future your circumstances change and you no longer pay tax on your income and capital gains equal to the tax that the charity reclaims, you can cancel your declaration (see note 1).

4.         If you pay tax at the higher rate you can claim further tax relief in your Self Assessment tax return.

If you are unsure whether your donations qualify for Gift Aid tax relief, ask the charity.  Or you can ask you local tax office for leaflet IR113 Gift Aid.

ANNEX B

ITINERARY FOR TOUR OF NEW ZEALAND

FOR

THE ROYAL NAVAL ASSOCIATION

27 FEBRUARY - 15 MARCH 2009

Days 1 and 2 - Friday 27 February and Saturday 28 February 2009
Depart Heathrow for Air New Zealand flight to Auckland via Hong Kong. There will be a refuelling stop in Hong Kong.

Day 3 - Sunday 1 March 2009 - Arrive Auckland
Arrive Auckland late morning. After proceeding through Immigration and Customs meet Ron McPhail and then travel to the top of Mt Eden for a panoramic view of the ‘City of Sails’ which has more boats per person than any other city in the world. After lunch visit Sky Tower and then check in to your hotel. Remainder of the afternoon at leisure. Dinner in your hotel.
.Overnight Langham Hotel, Auckland L/D

Day 4 - Monday 2 March 2009 - Auckland
This morning visit the Naval Museum at Devonport and then HMNZS Philomel for a visit hosted by the Royal New Zealand Navy. This is followed by lunch on the North Shore with members of the Royal New Zealand Naval Association based in Auckland. Return to hotel late afternoon. This evening enjoy the Pride of Auckland sailing cruise and dinner on the Waitemata Harbour.
Overnight Langham hotel, Auckland B/L/D

Day 5 - Tuesday 3 March 2009 - Auckland - Omapere
The first visit today is to the Kauri museum at Matakohe. After lunch in the Gum diggers café travel on to Dargaville and through the Waipoua Kauri Forest, home of Tane Mahuta (Lord of the Forest, the largest Kauri tree at 52 metres). Take some short walks to see some of these magnificent trees. From here continue to Oamapere on the Hokianga harbour. Dinner in your hotel.
Overnight Copthorne Hotel & Resort, Hokianga B/L/D

Day 6 - Wednesday 4 March 2009 - Omapere – Waitangi, Bay of Islands
Travel to Waitangi this morning and visit the Waitangi National Reserve where the Treaty of Waitangi was negotiated with the Maoris by Captain William Hobson representing the British in 1840. Late morning travel by ferry from Paihia to Russell where you can enjoy lunch at the Swordfish Club and explore this town which had a seamy reputation in the 1800’s and where the Ngapuhi chief Hone Heke cut down the British flagstaff four times in 1844 and 1845. This afternoon cruise out through the Bay of Islands to Cape Brett and pass through the Hole in the Rock. Return to Paihia and check in to your hotel.
Overnight Copthorne Hotel & Resort, Waitangi, Bay of Islands B/L/D

Day 7 - Thursday 5 March 2009 - Waitangi - Rotorua
This morning drive south on State Highway One to Whangarei and then to Auckland. Travel over the Bombay hills with their rich red volcanic soil, through the lush green Waikato to Hamilton and then over the Mamaku range to Rotorua, for a 2 night stay.
This evening travel a short distance from Rotorua for a Maori hangi and cultural experience.
Overnight Kingsgate Hotel, Rotorua B/L/D

Day 8 - Friday 6 March 2009 - Rotorua – Tauranga - Rotorua
Visit Te Puia (the Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve and the Maori Arts and Crafts Institute). See the Maori carvers at work and walk around the thermal reserve where you see boiling mud pools and the spectacular Pohutu geyser. Next the Agrodome for an entertaining farm show. Lunch in the Skyline Restaurant before travelling a short distance to Tauranga via Te Puke (the kiwifruit capital). This was the location for the battle of Gate Pa - an epic battle between the Maoris and men from the Royal Navy and British troops during the New Zealand Wars in the 1860’s. A reception in Tauranga early this evening with members of the Ex Navalmens Association. Return to Rotorua.
Overnight Kingsgate Hotel, Rotorua B/L/D

Day 9 - Saturday 7 March 2009 - Rotorua - Queenstown
This morning fly to Queenstown via Christchurch. Transfer to the Gibbston Valley Winery
for lunch. Visit historic Arrowtown which thrived in the gold rush days and explore the area’s gold mining history before carrying on to Queenstown situated on the shores of Lake Wakatipu amongst magnificent alpine scenery. This evening ride on the gondola to Bob’s Peak where you dine while enjoying the magnificent view of Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu.
Overnight Kingsgate Hotel Terraces, Queenstown B/L/D

Day 10 - Sunday 8 March 2009 - Queenstown – Milford Sound – Te Anau
Travel alongside the shores of Lake Wakatipu to Southland and into the Te Anau basin and then through the spectacular Southern Alps and the Homer tunnel to Milford Sound. Cruise to the mouth of the Sound and enjoy a buffet lunch on board. Dolphins, seals and majestic waterfalls are among the magnificent sights in this part of Fiordland National Park. Return to Te Anau this afternoon. Dinner in your hotel.
Overnight Kingsgate Hotel Te Anau B/L/D

Day 11 - Monday 9 March 2009 - Te Anau – Doubtful Sound – Te Anau
For visitors a highlight of the trip to New Zealand - the hidden treasures of Doubtful Sound. The catamaran cruise from Pearl Harbour on Lake Manapouri takes you to the West Arm. A coach trip over Wilmot Pass, is followed by an unforgettable cruise on Doubtful Sound taking in the beautiful alpine scenery. Picnic lunch on board. On returning to West Arm you have the opportunity to travel by coach down a 2km spiral tunnel to the machine hall of the underground power station. Return across Lake Manapouri. Dinner in your hotel.
Overnight Kingsgate Hotel Te Anau B/L/D

Day 12 - Tuesday 10 March 2009 - Te Anau - Dunedin
Before leaving Te Anau visit the Wildlife Centre where the rare Blue Duck and the Takahe may be seen. From here travel via Mossburn, Gore and Balclutha past productive sheep, deer and dairy farms to Dunedin, called the Edinburgh of the South because of its Scottish heritage. The University City of Dunedin has a special place in the beginning of New Zealand’s colonial history. A tour of Dunedin offers a chance to look at some of the city's historic buildings before checking in to your hotel. Reception with members of the Royal New Zealand Naval Association this evening.
Overnight Dunedin City Hotel B/L/D

Day 13 - Wednesday 11 March 2009 - Dunedin
This morning take a tour of the Otago Peninsula which includes the Albatross Colony at Taiaroa Head. This is unique being the only mainland colony of albatross in the world. After lunch at the Royal Albatross Centre return to Dunedin This afternoon board the Taieri Gorge Train for a spectacular 4 hour trip which follows the Taieri River through rugged scenery. The train will stop 2 or 3 times for you to get off and look around. Dinner in your hotel.
Overnight Dunedin City Hotel B/L/D

Day 14 - Thursday 12 March 2009 - Dunedin - Christchurch
Travel on State Highway 1 this morning to Christchurch. The journey takes you through
North Otago hill country and then across the Canterbury Plains. Stop for lunch on a dairy farm near Rakaia. Enjoy a stroll in the beautiful garden and talk to the owners about New Zealand’s biggest export industry. Continue to Christchurch and then city sights before checking in to your hotel. A reception this evening with members of the Royal Naval Association at HMNZS Pegazus.
Overnight Copthorne Durham Street, Christchurch B/L/D

Day 15 - Friday 13 March 2009 - Christchurch - Nelson
Today travel to Nelson via Kaikoura and Blenheim. Kaikoura is well known for crayfish (rock lobster), whale watching and seals. You will see Southern Fur Seals basking on the rocks.
Late afternoon arrive in Nelson and check in to your hotel and a chance to freshen up before a reception with members of the Royal Naval Association.
Overnight Trailways Hotel, Nelson B/L/D

Day 16 - Saturday 14 March - Nelson – Auckland
Morning at leisure before transferring to the airport to catch your flight to Auckland where you board your Air New Zealand flight for return to Heathrow via Los Angeles. There will be a refuelling stop at Los Angeles airport B

Day 17 – Sunday 15 March – Heathrow
Arrive Heathrow Airport.

Included

Transport in air conditioned coach
Share twin accommodation in good quality hotels ranging from 3 to 5 star
All breakfasts, dinners and lunches as indicated in the itinerary.
Sky Tower, Pride of Auckland dinner cruise, Matakohe Kauri Museum, Waitangi National Reserve, Cape Brett cruise, Agrodome Farm Show, Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve and Maori Arts and Crafts Institute, Maori hangi and concert, gondola rides in Rotorua and Queenstown, ,Milford Sound cruise, Doubtful Sound cruise, Taieri Gorge Railway, Royal Albatross Colony.
New Zealand guide.  New Zealand Government Goods and Services Tax at 12.5%

Not Included

Travel/Medical insurance. 

Departure taxes UK, NZ International (NZ$25), Rotorua Domestic (NZ$5)
Items of a personal nature such as beverages, laundry, telephone

COST:     £2999-00 (excluding airport taxes) per person sharing a twin/double room.

                                 
- Single Room Supplement is £500.
A £150 per person non-refundable deposit is required at time of booking.

RNA NEW ZEALAND TOUR
 27 FEBRUARY – 15 MARCH 2009
 BOOKING FORM
(closing date Wednesday, 28 May 2008)

NAME……………………………………………………………

Address:………………………………………………………..

……………………………………………………………… …..

Post Code: …………………………………………………….

Telephone Number: …………………………………………………. …………….        

E-Mail Address: ……………………………………………………………………..

Important:  Name Must be Exactly as per Passport

Group Member Emergency Contact:                                                                               

Please provide a contact name & phone number of a relative/friend In case of emergency,  
             who will not be travelling with you.                                                   ..…

Mr/Mrs/Miss/Ms (Delete as appropriate)                                                                             

Forename………………………………………… …………….                                             

Surname…………………………………………….  ………….                                        

Phone Number (Day)………………………………………

Phone Number (Night)………………………………………….

Relationship………………………………………………. …….

Payment Details:

………….deposits @ £150 per person (non-refundable) = £………..
                                                                                                                                                
(Cheques payable to:  The Royal Naval Association)

Final Balance is due by Wednesday 10 December 2008.

Travel and Medical Insurance is NOT INCLUDED in the price. Please make
your own comprehensive insurance arrangements.  This should include for
the reimbursement of the cost of the tour should you cancel after the final
balance has been paid.

Bookings accepted on a first come first served basis
(Note:  Limited Single Room availability).
                                  

Please enclose SAE for booking confirmation

           Signed…………………………………………..     Date……………………

SEND COMPLETED FORM TO:   RNA HEADQUARTERS (NEW ZEALAND TOUR),  82 CHELSEA  MANOR STREET,  LONDON SW3 5QJ

Further information can be obtained by contacting Jill Stellingworth – Tel: 01932 840208/Mobile – 07742 921910 or e-mail – jill.stellingworth@virgin.net
(please note she will be unavailable to answer queries 1-16 March inclusive)

Annex C     

An Announcement from the MoD about Radiation Linked Diseases

The MOD/AWE Compensation Scheme for Radiation Linked Diseases

The Compensation Scheme for Radiation Linked Diseases in the Ministry of Defence is a joint initiative between participating employers and their trades’ unions. Scheme members include AWE plc, DML, Babcock Naval Services, BNFL, and is administered by an independent Executive Secretary on behalf of all participants.

Who is eligible?

Claimants must be an employee or ex-employee of a Scheme participant or a dependant in the case of death. A radiation dose record must exist for the individual and they must have contracted or died from a disease covered by the Scheme. This includes most (but not all) forms of cancer as well as cataracts.

Under the Nuclear Installations Act 1965, licence holders are liable for any harm arising from site operations and negligence need not be proven.  Although compensation claims may be settled by reference to the courts, such recourse can be lengthy and expensive.  The Compensation Scheme is designed to be faster, less costly, less traumatic and adopts a less vigorous test than applied by the courts. 

It should be borne in mind that cancer is one of the most common diseases in the developed world.  Around 1 in 3 of the UK population contracts the disease and around 1 in 4 die from it.  Thus not all cases applying to the Scheme will be successful. The purpose of the Scheme is to attempt to distinguish cases where there is a reasonable probability that they have been caused by occupational radiation exposure from those where there is a low probability.

It is an essential feature of the Scheme that compensation cases are never closed.  In the event of further evidence becoming available, such as changes to a claimant’s dose history or advances in scientific or medical knowledge, cases can be reassessed.

How to apply?

Applicants may apply through their trade union, or to the Compensation Scheme Executive Secretary, B582/IFS British Nuclear Group Sellafield, Cumbria CA20 1PE (Tel. 01946 774716).  The Scheme is entirely voluntary; claimants can choose whether to use the scheme or to take legal action against their employer for radiation injury.  The trade unions recommend the Scheme.

Full details on how the Scheme operates is available on the Scheme’s website at www.csrld.org.uk

Annex D

An interesting paper by the Confederation of British Service and ex-Service Organisations  (COBSEO) which members may find of interest |:

The Unique Nature of Military Service

This statement represents the collective view of COBSEO

Introduction

1. The Armed Forces exist to engage in war, which means using military force to achieve a political objective. It is that function which distinguishes them from all other occupations. This places extraordinary demands on Service personnel and requires an organisation unlike any other, which must be able to compel its members to put their own lives at risk, and to take the lives of others as
the military situation requires. This demands a unique liability and sacrifice and it means that Armed Forces personnel necessarily forego some of the rights and freedoms enjoyed as a matter of course by all others in civilian society.

2. In return for this unique liability, it is the duty of Government to provide the Armed Forces with the equipment, manpower and training they require to carry out their tasks, and to give them terms and conditions of service that are demonstrably fair and appropriate to their special status. This is a
mutual obligation and it forms the basis of the military covenant, which is an unbreakable bond of identity, loyalty and responsibility between the nation and its government and those serving in the Armed Forces. It is a psychological contract which must not be breached if mutual trust is to be maintained.

3. Because of the unique nature of military service, the covenant must extend to the families of Service personnel, for so often it is they who suffer the consequences when a Service man or woman is killed, injured or mentally damaged in support of government objectives. For that reason the
covenant must be binding even beyond death, where dependants are involved (widows, widowers,partners or other dependant relatives). In short, the ability to order people to put their lives at risk carries with it the responsibility to ensure the dependants of those people are properly looked after should the ultimate price be paid.

4. The Armed Forces are frequently described as "special", not least by Ministers and the media. The Armed Forces Pay Review Body report of 2007 mentions "the unique nature of our remit group". Nevertheless, when it comes to negotiating pay, pensions, medical care or terms & conditions the words 'special', 'unique' or 'military covenant' carry no formal weight because the military covenant
specifies no enforceable rights or privileges, and relies on a moral contract rather than a legal one.

Aim
5. The aim of this paper is to provide the background for informed discussion with the MoD and Senior Commanders on the unique nature of military service.

Legal and Political Aspects

1. There are a number of specific legal provisions, underpinned by the Service Discipline Acts (see Note), which affect military personnel, who are subject to Service law in addition to civilian law (other differences also exist which are cultural and historical). They include:

● Liability to implement Government policy anywhere, at any time, at no notice    regardless of personal circumstances or individual wishes

● The possibility of being sentenced to military detention or prison for refusing to obey a lawful order.
Note: Army Act 1955, Air Force Act 1955, Naval Discipline Act 1957 and the new Armed Forces Act 2006 - which is being phased in and will be enacted fully by 2009 to replace the three original Acts.

● The possibility of being sentenced to military detention for not turning up for work (AWOL)

● The liability of being recalled to military service (and sent to war) even after formal retirement from
the Armed Forces and transfer to civilian status

● Certain limited exemptions from working time directive legislation, and no right to overtime pay

● Exemptions from certain aspects of equal opportunities legislation (particular examples being age and disability discrimination)

● Exemption from certain aspects of health & safety legislation

● Exemption from minimum wage legislation

● No right of access to an employment tribunal on grounds of unfair or constructive dismissal or breach of contract generally

● No right to have a formally constituted independent professional association (trade union or federation) to safeguard individuals' interests, thus requiring Service men and women to rely wholly on their chain of command (the MoD) to represent all welfare and employment matters

● No right to take an active part in the affairs of any political organisation, party or movement.  Specifically no right to take part in political marches or demonstrations. If a Service person wishes to stand for Parliament he or she must leave the Services beforehand

● Royal Prerogative - the authority and employment of members of the Armed Forces derives directly from the Sovereign

● Engagements in military service are voluntary but only on the part of the Crown and give no occasion for action in respect of any alleged contract

Case Studies
7. Perhaps the most obvious example of not treating the Armed Forces as a unique group is the automatic read-across principle which applies within the public sector. This means that, in general terms, when a request for an improvement to terms and conditions is raised on behalf of the Armed Forces, it will not usually be enacted if similar improvements are not available to the rest of the
public sector. A particular case in point is the refusal to address the post retirement widows' pensions issue because of read-across. The no-retrospection ruling is another example where improvements for the Armed Forces are constrained by guidelines applied across the public sector. Specific instances can be highlighted for each of these principles.

Realistic Goals
8. The Armed Forces do not demand privileged status but merely to be treated as a unique group and a special case within the public sector. This would enable negotiations on pay and conditions of service, and the treatment of retired and dependant persons, to be conducted on their individual merits. If this were so there would be no further automatic read-across to the rest of the public
sector, and no automatic imposition of the no-retrospection ruling when negotiating these matters. These are realistic goals, which must apply similarly to serving persons and to those retired and their dependants.

COBSEO
February 2008

History of the League

Founded in the early 1930s by Captain Bob Moyse MC DCM BEM with branches up  and down the country,   their magazine was called “The Ribbon”.  The league’s president was always a distinguished soldier, eg Brigadier Sir Jackie Smythe VC MC MP.  It was he in the early 1960s who left the DCM league to start the VC and GC Association.  The league and the Association kept close links as a result.  To this day Christmas Cards are exchanged and invitations are sent from the VC a\nd GC Association for league members to attend their annual service of thanksgiving, remembrance and re-dedication at the St. Martin in the Fields Church in London.

Initially the league was run by chairman and members who had served in the 1914-18 war.  Its purpose was to find work for those DCM holders who were seeking such help.  There was a muster in London every year with the royal patron in attendance. Patrons have ranged from Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth  The Queen Mother, King George V’s daughter HRH The Princess Royal and currently His Royal Highness The Duke of Kent.  The various branches with their standards paraded on Horse Guards Parade,   held a service al fresco and marched to the Cenotaph to lay wreaths.  An employee of the Daily Express with the DCM called Arthur Caiger conducted the singing.  (he always did so at the Cup Final at Wembley so the DCM was “advertised” on the song sheet every year).

Each branch was made responsible for its own fund-raising.  Some branches had a simple draw, others had dinner dances and some held dug-out suppers.  The London branch preferred the last type where the participants wore tin hats and ate by candlelight.  The annual subscription was 3s.6d. which meant the branch treasurers were busy checking that their respective members had paid their dues each year.  A card was issued for that purpose which the branch treasurer initialled as proof of the subscriptions being paid.

The boost to the membership came at the end of the Second World War when DCM holders were recruited into the league by personal letters passed through the incumbent’s regimental headquarters.  This fillip was felt most in 1950 but the 1914-18 chairmen clung to office, which meant by the 1970s became moribund because of the chairmen’s advanced ages.

The one DCM holder who joined the league in 1950 was James Charles Cowley DCM who was serving in the Coldstream Guards as a Warrant Officer Class 1 (RSM).
He was posted to Egypt that year, commissioned in 1953 to be posted to Germany.  He went from the 1st Battalion to the 2nd Battalion.  Returning to Chelsea Barracks, London in 1955 he was made Camp Commandant 1st Guards Brigade and after a spell in Shorncliffe the whole brigade went to Cyprus.  It was not until he returned to England could he interest himself in the DCM league.  Early in the 1960s he was made the Parade Marshall of the London branch.  Although he left the army in 1968 and went to work in the north east shipyards, he maintained a link with the London branch.  He discovered that the 1914-18 chairman of the London branch had appointed Major J. Johnston MBE DCM of the Irish Guards, then the Camp Commandant London District, to be the President.  In a few years in the post he died and the chairman, as an old and sick man, invited Cowley to become the President in 1974.  Cowley took up the post on the 9th September that year, the 30th anniversary of his winning the DCM.   The best Cowley could do was to keep in touch with about six stalwarts around the country to maintain an interest.  He was extremely busy during his day to day routine in the many shipyards he had to visit, 19 establishments in all from the Clyde to the Humber, including engine-works and foundries.  He sensed that the DCM league was failing and faltering so when The Queen appointed him a Military Knight of Windsor in 1982 he decided to resuscitate it.  He started writing newsletters, which his daughter Jacqui typed and with the assistance of others formed a committee, which met at Windsor Castle.  a worldwide exercise was set in motion inviting all DCM holders to a muster in Windsor Castle in 1985.  Over 200 DCM holders attended, one from Tonga wearing a grass skirt and another, the only Cypriot to be awarded the DCM,  Theodolous by name.  It was such a great success that it was decided to hold regular muster every other year in cities where DCM holders were resident to supervise the event.   The chairman, Harry Glover DCM lived in Nottingham so we held a muster in that city in 1987.  Others took place in Winchester, Chester, Lancing and London. 

With the demise of so many DCMs during those years it was decided to use two establishments in London  - the Victory Services Club and the Royal Chelsea Hospital Chelsea as permanent locations.  In the meantime holders of the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal, both Royal Navy and Royal Air Force (Flying) were invited to join forces.  The title changed to the DCM & CGM Association.

In 1993 the Conspicuous Gallantry Cross was instituted which superseded the DCM and the CGM.  All ranks of the three services are now eligible for this new Cross.  The President and executive committee decided to extend the league membership by inviting all level II gallantry award holders to come under the fresh title “The Gallantry Medallists’ League”, still with world-wide membership.   Membership includes Commonwealth awards within level II; Australians holding the Star of Gallantry and the Star of Courage, Canadians holding the Star for Military Valour and Star of Courage and New Zealanders holding the Gallantry Star and Bravery Star. 

Whilst many ex-service organisations are closing down the league keeps going which is an encouraging fact.  After 27 years as President, Major Jim Cowley OBE DCM resigned at the 2000 AGM.  He was succeeded by Lt. Colonel John Williams MBE DCM who, unfortunately, after nine months in post died in January 2001.  His death sent shock waves through the league ranks.  The President is now Lt. Colonel John Gaff GM, who was appointed at the 2002 AGM.

As members grew older and few new level II awards were being made, a new class of membership was opened, Friend of the League, for those wishing to support the aims of the league.