Cave divers’ bravery

SIR – The British and Commonwealth divers who took part in the Thai cave rescue do indeed deserve formal recognition (Letters, July 12).

However, most Commonwealth realms now have their own award systems, and their governments are responsible for making such awards in the Queen’s name.

The Victoria Cross is so highly respected across the Commonwealth that it has, uniquely, been retained by Australia, Canada and New Zealand as a way to recognise supreme valour on the battlefield; but although physically almost identical to the British Victoria Cross, it is, again, awarded by the governments of each respective realm.

The George Cross, instituted by the Queen’s father in 1940, is awarded “for acts of the greatest heroism or for most conspicuous courage in circumstance of extreme danger”. This must be the most suitable award for the British divers – or, at least, the George Medal.

Nicholas Young London W13