Jacob Collier
Main Page: Jacob Collier (Labour - Burton and Uttoxeter)Department Debates - View all Jacob Collier's debates with the Ministry of Defence
Royal British Legion
Jacob Collier Excerpts(3 days ago)
Westminster HallRead Full debate Read Hansard Text Read Debate Ministerial Extracts
Westminster Hall is an alternative Chamber for MPs to hold debates, named after the adjoining Westminster Hall.
Each debate is chaired by an MP from the Panel of Chairs, rather than the Speaker or Deputy Speaker. A Government Minister will give the final speech, and no votes may be called on the debate topic.
This information is provided by Parallel Parliament and does not comprise part of the offical record
Jacob Collier (Burton and Uttoxeter) (Lab)
It is a pleasure to serve under your chairmanship, Sir Jeremy. I thank the hon. Member for Hinckley and Bosworth (Dr Evans) for securing the debate.
For over a century, the RBL has been a pillar of support for our armed forces community, serving those who have served us and ensuring that no one is left behind. The work of the RBL is deeply personal to my constituency of Burton and Uttoxeter. Our Uttoxeter branch was established back in 1927, and has long been a source of camaraderie, support and remembrance in our local community. In Burton, veterans such as Carlton Wilkin, formerly of the Mercian Regiment, dress immaculately for every civic occasion and organise our poppy appeal. I look forward to joining them again in poppy selling later this year.
The poppy appeal is not just about raising funds—my constituents are always very generous—but about honouring those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. It is a testament to the unwavering commitment of RBL volunteers, who dedicate their time to making a real difference to other people’s lives. I grew up in a generation that remembers the news showing Union flag-draped coffins being unloaded and paraded through Wootton Bassett every day. That always left a strong impression on me, and the RBL was always at the heart of giving our heroes the send-off they deserve.
Beyond the poppy appeal, I echo the sentiments of my hon. Friend the Member for Lichfield (Dave Robertson). I have the honour of having the National Memorial Arboretum just outside my constituency. Every time I visit, I discover something new, whether a new memorial or a chance to reflect. I encourage everybody to take up my hon. Friend’s offer.
I commend the Government for their recent commitment of £3.5 million to support military veterans who face homelessness. As many hon. Members have said, we must go further by ensuring that the armed forces covenant is enshrined in law. The Royal British Legion embodies the very best of our nation of service, sacrifice and solidarity. We owe it our gratitude, but most importantly we owe it our continued support and action. I will always wear my poppy with pride and honour the service of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.