Oral Answers to Questions

James Sunderland Excerpts

Monday 24th May 2021 Commons Chamber

[Mrs Heather Wheeler (South Derbyshire) (Con)]

What steps his Department is taking to protect veterans from vexatious legal claims.

[James Sunderland (Bracknell) (Con)]

What steps his Department is taking to protect veterans from vexatious legal claims.

[Matt Vickers (Stockton South) (Con)]

What steps his Department is taking to protect veterans from vexatious legal claims.

--- Later in debate ---

[Leo Docherty]

My hon. Friend is right to raise investigations, which are a critically important component of the service justice system. It is in the interests of serving personnel that we have a rigorous and transparent system. That is why the Secretary of State has tasked Justice Richard Henriques to conduct a thorough review of our approach to investigations. We much look forward to him reporting in the autumn.

[James Sunderland]

I believe that support for our veterans continues to improve under this Government, but, as the Minister knows, there are two pressing issues that require immediate resolution: Northern Ireland legacy; and the statutory guidance for the Armed Forces Bill. Will he please assure me that both are forthcoming?

[Leo Docherty]

First, let me say how grateful I am for the work that my hon. Friend does in supporting veterans, particularly with the all-party parliamentary group on veterans and with other activities; it is appreciated. The statutory guidance will be published shortly. We are cognisant that the Armed Forces Bill needs to have teeth, and that statutory guidance will be part of our approach. When it comes to Northern Ireland, we have a shared interest in ensuring that this is dealt with. The Government will in due course bring forward a package that delivers for veterans, victims and their families.