The minister claimed he still had full faith in General Campbell, despite overriding his decision.
The Brereton report laid out specific recommendations for removing meritorious unit citations from Special Operations Task Group troops who served in Afghanistan.
It emphasised the difference between group and individual awards, saying the latter could not be revoked on a broad-brush or collective basis.
"Although many members of the Special Operations Task Group demonstrated great courage and commitment and although it had considerable achievements, what is now known must disentitle the unit as a whole to eligibility for recognition for sustained outstanding service," the report said.