Mike Hall MP

Labour Party | Weaver Vale

Bevin Boys

Mike Hall MP for Weaver Vale calls on all surviving Bevin Boys to come forward to claim a unique veterans badge as a tribute to their sacrifices during and after the Second World War. These heroes in our community helped to keep the coalfields running during the war and in the post-war reconstruction of Britain.

The Bevin Boys scheme was introduced in 1943 by then Minister for Labour and National Service, Ernest Bevin, in response to an increasing shortage of labour in the coal mining industry. The scheme ran between 1943 and 1948 and involved recruiting men aged between 18 and 25 years to work in coal mines rather than serve in the armed forces. Some 48,000 men were either selected or volunteered under the scheme.

It is with honour and gratitude that the government recognises their tremendous work with the award of this special badge. All Bevin Boys, be they ballotees, optants or volunteers, are eligible to apply. Applications will also be accepted from widows of Bevin Boys who passed away on or after the 20 June 2007, provided a copy of the marriage and death certificate are attached to the application form.

The first badges will be issued in March next year, to coincide with the 60th anniversary of the demobbing of the last Bevin Boy.

If you think you may be eligible, I urge you to complete an application form, available by calling the Service, Personnel and Veterans Agency helpline on 0800 169 2277 or 01253 866043, or by visiting www.veteransagency.co.uk.

It is important that we never forget the sacrifices that were made both at home and abroad during the war. If you are a Bevin Boy, or you know someone who is, please come forward to claim this fitting tribute.