The British commission considering the issue has tentatively recommended a partial breach of the rule, and Conservative Party spokesmen have called for action.

The successful capture of Messines Ridge is followed by a partial breach of German defenses at Passchendaele, with immense loss of life at both sides.

In a "minor" breach (a partial breach or immaterial breach or where there has been substantial performance), the non-breaching party cannot sue for specific performance, and can only sue for actual damages.

Hamilton was awarded £4,000 in 1936 by the War Office for the use of his early bridges and the Royal Commission on Awards to Inventors awarded him £10,000 in 1954 for the partial breach of his patent by the design of the Bailey bridge.