A DECISION to award 'Freedom of the Borough' to Barry's World War II veterans has prompted a war of words between local councillors.

The Vale of Glamorgan Council decided at a meeting on Wednesday, April 28, to grant The Merchant Navy Association (Wales) and the Welsh Guards the Freedom of the Borough.

But their plans were opposed by some members.

Plaid Cymru's Cllr Janie Jones said: "I cannot agree to this in all conscience because it glorifies war and militarism.

"I have nothing but praise for the Merchant Navy, but it is these kind of ceremonies that I don't agree with. In view of the awful atrocities that are going on in Iraq and the number of young people who are coming home in bodybags, I think it is a most insensitive, unfortunate moment to introduce this kind of initiative.

"Welsh regiments have provided cannon fodder in all wars, and I believe that it is the Colonel Blimps and brass that benefit from this type of honour rather than the rank and file. I would like to add that these are my own personal views and do not reflect the policy of my party. I think this emotive issue is being exploited by Labour for election purposes."

But the Labour Party members disagree.

Cllr Rob Curtis said: "Barry lost proportionally more of its Merchant Navy seamen in World War II than any other town in Britain. I believe that it is long overdue for the Vale Council to recognise their ultimate sacrifice to keep us free.

"Britain depended for her survival upon maritime trading routes. Between September 1939 and May 1943, we faced the prospect of defeat almost daily as German U-boats tried to sever our supply lines. By 1945 Britain had lost over 5,000 Merchant ships. I believe we should never forget their sacrifice."

John Wells, 80, of the Barry Branch of the Merchant Navy Association, said: "We have been trying to get the Freedom of the Borough since 2001 and are very pleased to have the honour bestowed upon us.

"There are many ex-Merchant Navy seamen in Barry. Many more were lost during World War II. The Freedom of the Borough is a fitting tribute to them."