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Remembrance and Veterans

28 October 2024

Lead MP

John Healey

Debate Type

General Debate

At a Glance

John Healey raised concerns about remembrance and veterans in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.

How the Debate Unfolded

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

Lead Contributor

John Healey

Opened the debate

This debate is about honouring and supporting veterans, focusing on the legacy Act in Northern Ireland and its impact on veterans' rights. It also highlights the importance of remembrance events, learning from past conflicts like D-Day and Afghanistan, and the role of charities that support armed forces and veterans. The speaker emphasises the need to strengthen the country’s understanding and commitment towards our armed forces as the number of veterans is set to decline by a third in this decade.

Mark Francois Con

Rayleigh and Wickford

Critiques the Government's plans to repeal the Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Act, arguing it will harm veterans who served during the troubles by not addressing their concerns adequately.

Julian Lewis Con

New Forest East

Suggests that the Government should follow a recommendation made in an earlier report on protecting veterans through a statute of limitations, which was previously endorsed quietly by some Northern Irish parties despite public condemnation.

Jim Shannon DUP

Strangford

Calls for justice and accountability for those who served during the troubles, referencing personal experiences involving unaccounted crimes committed against veterans of the Ulster Defence Regiment and Royal Artillery.

Ian Roome Lib Dem

North Devon

Commemorates the 360th birthday of the Royal Marine Corps, highlighting their support from local bases like Royal Marines Base Chivenor. Emphasises the importance of service charities in supporting veterans.

Tim Farron Lib Dem

Westmorland and Lonsdale

Stresses the significance of investing in mental health support for veterans, specifically praising One Vision, a charity providing counselling services to armed forces personnel post-service.

James Cartlidge Con

South Suffolk

Mr. Cartlidge stresses the importance of learning from past conflicts and maintaining a strong deterrent against potential threats. He praises the UK's role in supporting Ukraine, outlines plans to increase defence spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2030, and addresses challenges like munitions replenishment, retention issues caused by an education tax, and accommodation problems faced by military families.

Tan Dhesi Lab

Slough

I rise today to express gratitude and admiration for all veterans, particularly highlighting the contributions of those from diverse backgrounds. Tan Dhesi emphasises that Slough's ethnic diversity makes it imperative to remember all who have sacrificed their lives in wars, including soldiers from Commonwealth countries such as India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Africa. He mentions that more than 1.5 million people from these regions contributed during World War I and notes the significant contribution of Sikhs, forming around 20% of the Indian Army despite being only 2% of British India’s population pre-partition. Dhesi also highlights ongoing issues like Gurkha pension disparities and visa fees for non-UK service personnel that hinder proper recognition and remembrance.

Helen Maguire Lib Dem

Epsom and Ewell

Maguire shared her experience in the British Army, highlighting challenges such as resource disparities between troops from different countries, family impacts post-service, housing needs for veterans, financial struggles due to cuts in winter fuel allowance, military compensation concerns, mental health support, issues faced by female and LGBT+ veterans.

Steve Darling Lib Dem

Torbay

Darling agreed with Maguire's stance on the need for better support systems for veterans and specifically suggested that military compensation should be excluded when calculating pension credit to help veterans.

Jodie Gosling Lab

Nuneaton

Madam Deputy Speaker, I am honoured to make my maiden speech and represent the people of Nuneaton. My town has a rich history dating back to the Domesday Book and is known for its coal industry until recently. It is also home to many armed forces members and veterans who have made significant sacrifices. We commemorate Louis Carter, a brave soldier who lost his life in service, and recognise Laurie Payne, our last surviving Korean War veteran. Despite challenges, Nuneaton has embraced new industries and celebrated local achievements like the King’s award for inclusion by Nuneaton Signs.

Sarah Bool Con

South Northamptonshire

Remembrance is a time to reflect on our freedoms and the sacrifices made by previous generations. My constituency includes many monuments dedicated to heroes, and I am involved in various remembrance services this year. Through my participation in the armed forces parliamentary scheme, I have seen firsthand the importance of supporting our serving men and women adequately. We must invest more in our armed forces and ensure veterans receive proper support transitioning into civilian life.

Dan Tomlinson Lab

Chipping Barnet

Praises the maiden speech of Jodie Gosling and pays tribute to Theresa Villiers. Discusses the history and characteristics of Chipping Barnet, highlighting its suburban nature and the importance of supporting local businesses like pubs. Emphasises the need for a political party to understand suburban life to govern effectively for the whole country. Raises concerns about social security, affordable housing, public services, and economic growth. Stresses the need to rebuild the 'deal' between residents and government to ensure that hardworking individuals receive the support they deserve.

Rebecca Paul Con

Reigate

Expressed gratitude for the trust placed in her by the people of Reigate, Redhill, Banstead and their villages. Acknowledged her predecessor, Crispin Blunt, his 27 years of public service, and his team's support. Praised the constituency's unique character with its towns and villages, highlighting historical landmarks and community spirit. Emphasised the importance of preserving the green belt while addressing housing needs through brownfield development rather than building on green spaces. Cited Clement Attlee’s efforts in post-war housing as a model to address current challenges and honoured local servicemen who fought for their country.

Amanda Hack Lab

North West Leicestershire

Acknowledges the contributions of her hon. Friends and the hon. Member for Reigate on remembrance and veterans. She highlights the festival of remembrance in her constituency, emphasising the importance of remembering those who served and are currently serving in the military. The MP discusses the challenges facing North West Leicestershire due to rapid growth and the need for better infrastructure. She is proud to be the first female MP in her constituency and references its rich history including coalmining, textile industries, and railway manufacturing. She expresses a desire to improve public services and reopen the Ivanhoe line for passenger rail service.

Ben Obese-Jecty Con

Huntingdon

Emphasises the significant veteran population in Huntingdon and its historical ties with the armed forces. He shares his personal experience as an infantry officer during Operation Herrick 11 in Afghanistan, highlighting a tragic event that cost two soldiers their lives. The MP reflects on the duty to remember fallen soldiers and underlines the human cost of military operations, honouring Lance Corporal Sarah Bushbye's bravery with the Military Cross for her lifesaving efforts.

Tom Rutland Lab

East Worthing and Shoreham

Rutland paid tribute to the bravery of those who fought in World War II and emphasised the responsibility he feels as a new MP. He noted demographic changes in his constituency, including an increase in young families. Rutland acknowledged the work of previous Labour Governments and thanked his partner for support during his political career. He discussed local achievements such as engineering, life sciences, and community organisations that enhance marine biodiversity and promote social welfare.

Lisa Smart Lib Dem

Hazel Grove

Lisa Smart highlighted her personal connection to the armed forces through family members who served. She paid tribute to Gertrude Powick, a local woman from Hazel Grove who was a nurse and suffragist during World War I. Smart discussed challenges faced by veterans in her constituency, such as homelessness and mental health issues. She mentioned proactive community initiatives like the Armed Forces and Veterans Breakfast Club and proposed turning an old building into a veterans centre.

Leigh Ingham Lab

Stafford

It is an honour to speak in this debate today. With family who have served or are serving in the merchant navy, the Army and the RAF, I am thankful for the incredible sacrifice members of the armed forces and their families make for this country. My constituency has strong armed forces connections, including Beacon barracks, a training camp at Swynnerton, and a veteran community. I will support them to ensure access to quality accommodation and local services. I grew up in a working-class household, the daughter of a factory worker and a bricklayer, who are here today. I thank Westminster staff for their welcome. I pay tribute to my predecessors Theo Clarke, Sir Bill Cash, Jeremy Lefroy, and David Kidney for their service. Stafford is an urban and rural constituency with over 50 towns and villages, featuring the Ancient High House, Victoria park, and the Gatehouse theatre. Supporting our rural communities will be a key focus for me in the coming years.

Lincoln Jopp Con

Spelthorne

I start by wishing the Royal Marines a happy 360th birthday. Soldiers have little choice but to serve and are remembered as the nation sees fit. They died for us all to be free, regardless of personal choices. Remembrance is like going to church; it can mean different things to different people. Here today we will remember them and honour our fallen.

Louise Jones Lab

North East Derbyshire

I am a veteran who learned much from my service in the military, proud of my role in Afghanistan. My constituency has war memorials with names of those lost in conflicts. The poppy appeal is a grassroots movement that spontaneously united millions in hope. We need to learn lessons from past decisions affecting our armed forces. Accountability starts with an iota of shame from the Conservatives for their actions. The rule of law is important.

Liz Saville-Roberts PC

Dwyfor Meirionnydd

The post of Veterans’ Commissioner for Wales was established two years ago and is held by Colonel James Phillips but his appointment is due to end soon. There's a need for core state funding from both the Welsh and UK Governments to ensure veterans receive proper care in health and housing, which are devolved issues as well as reserved matters such as welfare and justice. 50% of the veteran population in Wales is over 65 years old and 20% is over 85, making the cost of living a significant challenge for older veterans. Military compensation should not be treated as income for benefits and pensions, an income disregard should be introduced. Veteran support relies heavily on third sector providers who have seen increased operational costs and reduced funding. Initiatives such as Op Courage, Op Restore and Op Nova lack equivalent funding in Wales. The campaign for an official memorial to remember and honour the pilots and navigators of the RAF’s Photographic Reconnaissance Unit is being organised by the Spitfire AA810 project.

Sarah Hall Lab Co-op

Warrington South

Honouring three brave soldiers from Warrington who lost their lives in service and paying tribute to Lisa Billing, mother of Private Daniel Wade, for her work revitalising Marshall gardens in memory of her son. The annual Warrington Armed Forces Day festival raises tens of thousands of pounds for armed forces charities. Veterans hub support is widespread and the Labour Government has committed to act on veterans' needs.

Jim Allister TUV

North Antrim

Placing on record appreciation for the sacrifice of our security forces who defended Northern Ireland from terrorism. Listing names and dates of soldiers who died in various years defending home soil, emphasising the need to put the veterans commissioner role on a statutory basis in Northern Ireland.

Mike Martin Lib Dem

Tunbridge Wells

Thinking of Luke Tooke, a royal artilleryman from Tunbridge Wells who died in 2018 in Afghanistan. Emphasising the personal and collective responsibility to consider carefully decisions about peace and war.

Alan Gemmell Lab

Central Ayrshire

Expressed gratitude to the armed forces, veterans, and organisations supporting them. Mentioned Veterans First Point in Irvine and the achievements of the Ayr and Prestwick branch of RAFA. Highlighted the importance of remembering the Battle of Kohima and its significance for Naga people.

Jim Shannon DUP

Strangford

Paid tribute to those who lost their lives during conflicts, including members of the Ulster Defence Regiment and Royal Ulster Constabulary. Emphasised the sacrifices made by soldiers and their families in maintaining peace and justice.

Amanda Martin Lab

Portsmouth North

Discussed Portsmouth's year-round remembrance activities and highlighted the importance of supporting veterans through various initiatives such as housing, voter ID recognition, and prioritising post-service support.

Alison Bennett Lib Dem

Mid Sussex

Recalled the life and contributions of George Chandler, a 99-year-old veteran who served during World War II. Emphasised his messages about remembering shipmates, advocating for compassion, and cautioning against repeating past mistakes.

Richard Baker Lab

Glenrothes and Mid Fife

Welcomed the Secretary of State, emphasised the importance of supporting veterans in his constituency. Highlighted issues faced by veterans such as isolation and loneliness through the example of William Montgomerie. Emphasised the need for Government's commitment to putting the armed forces covenant into law and creating an armed forces commissioner. Raised concerns about slow progress on mental health and housing support for veterans.

Josh Babarinde Lib Dem

Eastbourne

Praised his late great-grandfather, Flight Lieutenant Thomas Gittins, who served in World War II and was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross. Acknowledged the toll of war on mental health for veterans. Celebrated local support for veterans through organisations such as Royal British Legion and Eastbourne and District Veterans Association.

Graeme Downie Lab

Dunfermline and Dollar

Recalled his childhood on an RAF base in Berlin and the importance of remembrance. Highlighted the spread-out veteran community in his constituency, Dunfermline and Dollar, with a strong naval tradition. Emphasised the need for better coordination across Scotland to support veterans, using examples such as Alexander Malcolm McNeill from World War I and Norman Bonnar from World War II.

Al Pinkerton Lib Dem

Surrey Heath

Drawn attention to two veterans in Surrey Heath: Carol Morgan, discharged due to being gay; and Kaji Sherpa, a former Gurkha officer. Raised concerns about the inadequate compensation for LGBT veterans and the continuing fight for justice and recognition. Pledged support for the Gurkha community.

Steve Yemm Lab

Mansfield

The armed forces covenant is crucial for positively impacting the lives of service personnel and veterans. Labour has committed to enshrining it in law, ensuring no one from the armed forces family is disadvantaged due to military service. West Notts college received a defence employer recognition scheme silver award for supporting the armed forces covenant. The skills invested in service personnel during training continue to be beneficial in civilian life, providing advantages to businesses. Post-service support packages should match the commitment shown by our armed forces, including assistance for veterans involved in the justice system.

Richard Foord Lib Dem

Honiton and Sidmouth

Discussed the nuclear test issue on Christmas Island affecting British families and veterans. Constituent Stephen Greenwood's father served in the Royal Air Force during Operation Grapple, experiencing dangerous radiation levels which later caused cancer. His siblings born after his exposure had poor health compared to those born before, highlighting long-term consequences of these tests. Veterans advocate for annual remembrance events and compensation for health issues due to radiation exposure.

Laura Kyrke-Smith Lab

Aylesbury

Acknowledged the immense contribution of the armed forces community in Aylesbury, including serving troops, veterans, cadets, reservists, and personnel from Commonwealth countries. Emphasised remembrance embedded in local communities and highlighted the contributions of Indian troops in world wars. Praises government measures to strengthen support for armed forces communities by enshrining the armed forces covenant into law and establishing an independent commissioner.

Luke Taylor Lib Dem

Sutton and Cheam

Paid tribute to the Photographic Reconnaissance Unit during World War II, which contributed significantly but lacks a national memorial. Highlighted four veteran pilots from his constituency who made extraordinary contributions: Cyril Harley Sergeant Kirkus, Donald Nevill Gallai-Hatchard, Desmond Laurence Matthewman, and Ronald Henry Smyth DFC. Urges the Minister to meet Spitfire AA810 campaigners and assist in establishing a memorial for the PRU.

Emily Darlington Lab

Milton Keynes Central

Thanked those who served, died in combat and their families. Emphasised the importance of housing for armed forces veterans in Milton Keynes, recognising the role of women at Bletchley Park during WWII, highlighting their critical contributions to the war effort despite facing discrimination.

Alex Baker Lab

Aldershot

Shared a story about John, a veteran of the Royal Marines, who faced homelessness and mental health issues after service. Criticised local authority's approach in verifying his status as homeless before offering help. Pledged support for government’s commitment to house all veterans and stressed the importance of a culture change within every Government Department.

Chris McDonald Lab

Stockton North

Focused on mental health support for veterans, noting that military personnel receive excellent care but civilian services often lack understanding. Highlighted the need to normalise discussion about emotions and feelings to reduce suicide rates among veterans, welcoming government's commitment to put armed forces covenant on a statutory footing.

Jacob Collier Lab

Burton and Uttoxeter

Honoured those who have served and sacrificed for the country. Recognised efforts of local veterans like Carlton Wilkin, emphasising the importance of showing up for them in real and meaningful ways through support services such as mental health care and housing.

Patricia Ferguson Lab

Glasgow West

We should reflect on sacrifices during World War I and II, noting non-combatants' suffering. A campaign led to a war memorial in Glasgow West commemorating victims like those from Bankhead primary school where 40 died due to an unexplained bomb strike. We must redouble our efforts for peaceful resolutions as conflicts persist.

Julie Minns Lab

Carlisle

In Carlisle, the Border Regiment's service is celebrated at the museum of military life. My father served in Italy where 6,000 allied troops were lost, including from our regiment during Sicily’s invasion. The myth of 'D-day dodgers' overlooks heavy infantry losses; Monte Cassino saw hellish encounters and Rome's fall marked a significant milestone. We must commemorate battles like Monte Cassino as other key WWII conflicts are honoured.

Brian Leishman Lab

Alloa and Grangemouth

Alloa’s McLeod and Sons shipyard refitted ships for war, including tank landing crafts for D-day. Grangemouth’s airfield became a fighter base then training centre; many pilots and ground crew died there. Veterans’ groups like Falkirk Veterans provide meaningful support. Concerns arise over cutting the Armed Services Advice Project as it may be fatal to replace with call centres.

Douglas McAllister Lab

West Dunbartonshire

I attended the House of Commons garden opening and placed my remembrance cross. In Clydebank, five brothers died in WWI, symbolising national sacrifice; WWII’s blitz killed 1,200 civilians. We honour armed forces personnel and support them through initiatives like ‘Ask the Question’ which seeks to understand needs for appropriate support.

Nusrat Ghani Con

Sussex Weald

We have heard powerful contributions about remembrance; Dave Robertson will speak last.

Dave Robertson Lab

Lichfield

I honour Charles Leslie Whitehead and William Arnold Robertson, my taid and grandpa who served in WWII and Korea. Remembrance should extend beyond November to any time of year for personal reflection on anyone's birthday or anniversary. I am proud to host the National Memorial Arboretum with over 400 memorials; all Members are advised to visit.

Andrew Bowie Con

West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine

Mr. Andrew Bowie congratulated hon. Members who made maiden speeches, particularly the Member for Reigate on her excellent speech. He emphasised that remembrance is a time to reflect upon the sacrifices of those who have served in various conflicts from World War I onwards, mentioning his own family members and friends who have been involved in military service. Mr. Bowie highlighted the importance of remembering veterans from more recent conflicts as well, acknowledging the challenges faced by charities supporting these individuals. He acknowledged the work done by Johnny Mercer to support a new generation of veterans, including establishing the Office for Veterans’ Affairs and launching several operations such as Operation Fortitude to end homelessness among veterans. The Conservative Member also emphasised the need to provide comprehensive support to all veterans through measures like the investment in military homes, financial aid for armed forces charities, and the introduction of a veterans railcard.

Alistair Carns Lab

Birmingham Selly Oak

Discussed remembrance day, highlighted sacrifices made by military personnel from World War I to present conflicts. Emphasised the importance of supporting veterans with democracy rights, housing, mental health support, and welfare services.

Calvin Bailey Lab

Leyton and Wanstead

Asked if the veterans strategy is essential for addressing challenges faced by service people upon exit from military service.

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