Oral Answers to Questions

Rachel Hopkins Excerpts

Monday 8th January 2024 Commons Chamber

[James Heappey]

Clearly, the delivery of aid into Gaza is principally a maritime and aviation effort in the eastern Mediterranean, but my hon. Friend is correct to say that the security of shipping in the Red sea also has an impact. That is why Royal Navy warships are part of the Red sea taskforce that is seeking to protect those sea lanes.

[Rachel Hopkins (Luton South) (Lab)]

7. What recent steps Veterans UK has taken to support veterans and their families.

[Robin Millar (Aberconwy) (Con)]

8. What steps his Department is taking to support veterans.

--- Later in debate ---

[The Minister for Defence People and Families (Dr Andrew Murrison)]

The MOD delivers a range of services to veterans and their families. This includes the administration and payment of armed forces pensions and compensation, the provision of tailored advice and assistance through the Veterans Welfare Service and Defence Transition Services, and integrated personal commissioning for veterans.

[Rachel Hopkins]

Veteran homelessness rose by 14% last year according to the Government’s own figures. Does the Minister agree that his colleague, the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, the right hon. Member for Plymouth, Moor View (Johnny Mercer), is failing to deliver on his pledge to end veteran homelessness?

[Dr Murrison]

The hon. Lady will be aware that homelessness is not principally a function of the Ministry of Defence, but all of us want to make sure that veterans and their families are properly accommodated, and naturally reducing homelessness remains a Government priority.