> Personally, I like the idea that the medals, on the death of the winner, are then passed onto another m,edal-winner rather than simply casting new ones so that they acquire great histories and traditions.
I think this is a beautiful idea! It's not unlike what the Japanese used to do with Samurai swords.
> On a minor note, the argument could easily be advanced that the medals should revert to the British government in this case given their provenance.
No... to the *Crown*, which is whom Upham served. The NZ Government, as agents of the Crown, have a clear right to claim this Taonga, under such circumstances.
It's a sad situation this has come to. Let's hope it's resolved with a little dignity remaining for the Uphams...thanks for an enjoyable debate.