Overview

This bill makes it an offence to wear military medals or insignia awarded for valour with the intent to deceive. It aims to protect the integrity of these awards and prevent their misuse.

Description

The Awards for Valour (Protection) Bill criminalizes the wearing of specified medals or anything resembling them if done with the intent to deceive. The bill defines "award" broadly to include miniatures, ribbons, bars, rosettes, and emblems. Penalties for this offence include up to three months imprisonment and/or a fine. A schedule lists the specific awards covered, including gallantry awards (e.g., Victoria Cross, George Cross) and campaign medals (e.g., 1939-45 Star, Iraq Medal). The Secretary of State can amend this schedule via regulations, which require parliamentary approval. The bill applies across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland and comes into force two months after it becomes law.

Government Spending

The bill is not expected to have a significant impact on government spending. The cost will likely be associated with the administration of the new law (e.g., investigation and prosecution of offences). Specific figures are not provided in the bill text.

Groups Affected

• Individuals: Those who falsely wear military medals or insignia risk prosecution and penalties.
• Law enforcement: Police forces will be responsible for investigating and prosecuting offences under the new law.
• Courts: The courts will be involved in hearing and adjudicating cases related to this offence.
• Military veterans and their families: The bill may be seen as protecting the integrity of their awards and the respect shown to those who earned them.

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