Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

Nuclear Test Veterans

25 March 2026 · 1 other contributor

Opened by Rebecca Long-Bailey Lab Salford and Eccles

Veterans

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Rebecca Long-Bailey raised concerns about nuclear test veterans in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • MP thanked her mother for encouraging her to speak on nuclear test veterans issue
  • MP cited a 2014 Atomic Weapons Establishment report showing elevated radiation levels on Christmas Island
  • Minister committed to review of records and extension of criteria for the nuclear test medal

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Rebecca Long-Bailey Lab Salford and Eccles

The MP thanked her mum for encouraging her to speak on this issue, praising the efforts of campaigners like Sir John Hayes. She detailed how veterans were told radiation exposure was negligible when it was not, citing a 2014 Atomic Weapons Establishment report which showed elevated levels of radiation in food and water sources on Christmas Island where tests occurred. The MP called for an independent inquiry into handling of data, declassification of all relevant documents, review of past cases based on inaccurate evidence, and compensation schemes for affected veterans and their families.

Other contributors (1)
  • Judith Cummins Con Lincoln

    Expressed support for Rebecca Long-Bailey's work and concern for her mother.

Government Response

Louise Jones

The Minister thanked Rebecca Long-Bailey and Sir John Hayes for their tireless efforts, acknowledged the veterans' contribution to UK defence, and committed to maximum transparency. She detailed ongoing work including review of records, extension of criteria for the nuclear test medal, creation of an oral history document capturing veteran experiences, and transfer of historical records from Merlin database to National Archives. The Minister assured further investigation into recent AWE report release and its implications for past cases, committing to update Parliament as new information emerges.

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