Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Rosie Cooper and Johnny Mercer

Monday 15th March 2021 Commons Chamber

[Johnny Mercer]

Let me be clear: this will be the first strategic review to have a specific address to our people. They are our finest asset. They are rewarded not only financially but through the choice of career on offer to them. I encourage the hon. Gentleman to read that when it comes out and I am more than happy to have a conversation with him after that.

[Rosie Cooper (West Lancashire) (Lab)]

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

--- Later in debate ---

[The Minister for Defence People and Veterans (Johnny Mercer)]

The Office for Veterans’ Affairs champions our veterans’ mental health and wellbeing needs at the heart of Government. This month, NHS England launched Operation Courage, bringing together three NHS England veterans’ mental health services with a single point of access. Op Courage is truly a game changer for veterans in the UK, including in the north-east.

[Rosie Cooper [V]]

The Royal British Legion has said that the current extortionate charges to Commonwealth veterans to settle in the UK are unfair and should end. We completely agree, so what is the Minister doing to end this unjust treatment of those who have risked their lives for our country?

[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.