Oral Answers to Questions

Kerry McCarthy Excerpts

Monday 15th March 2021 Commons Chamber

[Rosie Cooper (West Lancashire) (Lab)]

What recent discussions he has had with representatives of military charities on improving support for veterans throughout the UK.

[Kerry McCarthy (Bristol East) (Lab)]

What recent discussions he has had with representatives of military charities on improving support for veterans throughout the UK.

[Gill Furniss (Sheffield, Brightside and Hillsborough) (Lab)]

What recent discussions he has had with representatives of military charities on improving support for veterans throughout the UK.

--- Later in debate ---

[Johnny Mercer]

Let me be absolutely clear: that is a policy that started under the previous Government. This is the first Government who have promised a pathway to residency for those who serve. We will deliver that. We are looking to consult in the coming months. This has been a long-term injustice for our foreign and Commonwealth service personnel and under this Government we are going to correct it.

[Kerry McCarthy [V]]

There seem to be some really good schemes that have been awarded funding under the Positive Pathways programme, but what is the Minister doing to ensure that veterans know about these schemes, and how can we be sure that they are not just a short-term engagement with veterans but really offer the seamless route of care and support that is talked about in the documentation?

[Johnny Mercer]

One of my biggest challenges in this role is not the fact that there are not pathways of care; it is getting people to understand that and to really be able to access fantastic, world-class healthcare and career advice and transition for a seamless progress from the military into civilian life. It is an ongoing effort and I welcome the hon. Lady’s efforts to help me with that.