Oral Answers to Questions

Robin Millar Excerpts

Monday 8th January 2024 Commons Chamber

[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.

[Paul Holmes (Eastleigh) (Con)]

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

--- Later in debate ---

[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.

[Robin Millar]

Thirteen veterans advisory and pensions committees across the UK provide the Minister’s Department with an important platform for hearing and helping veterans. Last year, with his help and the help of Members on both sides of the House, my private Member’s Bill gave the Secretary of State greater flexibility to use the network to help more veterans in more ways. Can the Minister tell the House what progress he has made with the VAPCs since my Bill received royal assent on 18 September?

[Dr Murrison]

First, let me congratulate my hon. Friend on his work on the Bill, which should properly be called the Millar Bill. I recently met VAPC chairs to discuss next steps, and we will ensure that the MOD engages with representatives from VAPCs in a series of working groups to set the direction for secondary legislation that will clarify their future role.