Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask His Majesty's Government, further to the remarks by The Earl of Minto on 21 March (HL Deb col 314), whether consideration will be given to making emergency financial redress payments to LGBT veterans who (1) have terminal illnesses, and (2) are over 65 and in serious and immediate financial hardship.

Given the complexities of creating the scheme, the Government cannot yet confirm the details, the expected number of claimants, nor the likely size of awards. Defence is considering the needs of the cohort throughout its development and is looking to include escalation routes for certain situations, including those who have terminal illnesses. The Government will continue to engage with LGBT veterans as plans for the financial award progress and is committed to providing information and updates as soon as possible.