Veterans Protection from Prosecution 2022-01-26
2022-01-26
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP raised concerns about the timeline for bringing forward legislation addressing vexatious claims against veterans who served in Northern Ireland.
What discussions has he had with the Northern Ireland Executive on when legislative proposals will be brought forward against vexatious claims made regarding veterans who served in Northern Ireland?
The Government collectively believe that any system for addressing the legacy of Northern Ireland's past must focus on delivering for those most impacted by the troubles, including victims, survivors and veterans. The Command Paper was published after engaging intensively with stakeholders, and they are reflecting carefully on what has been heard.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific timeline for legislative proposals not provided
Reflecting Carefully
Engaging Intensively
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP questioned the Secretary of State's commitment to finding a solution that addresses grievances while delivering for victims and veterans.
Does the Secretary of State agree there is a landing zone for victims and veterans to address grievance industry issues, ensuring a lasting legacy agreement so Northern Ireland can move forward?
My hon. Friend is absolutely right. It is important that we find a way forward that works for the people of Northern Ireland, delivering for victims, survivors and veterans; has a lasting ability to move things forward; and ensures those who do not know the truth will have a chance to get it in a reasonable timeframe.
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Assessment & feedback
No specific landing zone or agreement mentioned
Finding A Way Forward
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP asked for assurances regarding the support available to Op Banner veterans until legislation is introduced.
While waiting for legislation, will the Secretary of State work with the Office for Veterans' Affairs to ensure that any Op Banner veterans have the support they need?
The Government are unequivocal in their commitment to deliver for all those impacted by the troubles, including those who served bravely. The Secretary of State will work closely with the Office for Veterans' Affairs and his Minister for Defence People and Veterans.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific support measures not detailed
Working Closely
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP questioned the Parachute Regiment's refusal to apologize for actions during Bloody Sunday.
Does the Secretary of State think the Parachute Regiment should apologise for their soldiers' actions on Bloody Sunday?
The Government must accept responsibility for past wrongs and have apologised. The Secretary of State added his personal apology to that of the Government, emphasizing the importance of ensuring violence is not an answer in Northern Ireland.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific stance on Parachute Regiment's actions not addressed
Accepting Responsibility
Ensuring No Violence
Response accuracy
Q5
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP questioned the possibility of judicial inquiries in future proposals.
Will the Secretary of State confirm that under his proposals, a judicial inquiry will still be possible?
The legislation aims to ensure families can get to the truth quicker than they have in past situations. The Government are determined that the legislation brought forward will allow families to understand what happened without waiting decades.
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Assessment & feedback
No confirmation on judicial inquiry provisions
Families Getting To Truth Quicker
Response accuracy
Q6
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP emphasized the need for timely resolution in addressing issues affecting veterans.
Will there be no delay in functions of Government to reach a conclusion on legislative proposals, so that veterans can live their lives in peace?
My right hon. Friend makes an important point regarding the need to address issues affecting veterans without delay and leaving it to another generation who deserve to live their final years in peace.
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Assessment & feedback
No specific timeline for legislative action
Addressing Issues Without Delay
Response accuracy
Q7
Direct Answer
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Context
The question is prompted by the commemoration of two Royal Ulster Constabulary officers murdered in Londonderry, highlighting the need to ensure that proposals do not equate those who served with terrorists.
Every life lost in Northern Ireland matters. We remember the two RUC officers killed 50 years ago in Londonderry. As a former member of the Ulster Defence Regiment, I want to ensure that future proposals do not create moral equivalence between law-enforcing armed forces and police with terrorists like the IRA. Will the Secretary of State clearly state there will be no moral equivalence?
We are absolutely clear that we will never accept any moral equivalence between those who upheld law and order, protecting lives each day in Northern Ireland, and those engaging in acts of terrorism to destroy life. There must be a distinction.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q8
Partial Answer
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Context
The question is prompted by the ongoing discussions on dealing with Northern Ireland's past, focusing on the need for truth and justice for victims and their families.
In bringing forward proposals to address the legacy of our past, have you met representatives of innocent victims in Northern Ireland? Will these meetings inform your approach, as they want access to truth and justice without dispensing with justice?
We have engaged extensively with a wide range of stakeholders, including victims groups. In the last week, I have met with these very groups to understand their needs. We aim to deliver a process that helps people get to the truth while being realistic about what is achievable under current legal constraints.
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Assessment & feedback
Specifics on how meetings will directly inform future proposals were not provided.
Under Review
Response accuracy