Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Northern Ireland Troubles Bill: Scottish Veterans

Wednesday 25 February 2026 · 3 questions

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

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 2 Partly answered 0 Not answered 0

Key points

  • The Scottish Veterans Commissioner met the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland in December.
  • The Northern Ireland Office leads on matters related to the Northern Ireland Troubles Bill.
  • The new veterans strategy includes 50 million for Valour, a UK-wide Government approach to veterans support.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Robin Swann Ulster Unionist Party South Antrim
Northern Ireland Veterans
Context

The Northern Ireland Troubles Bill was introduced in October to provide truth and accountability for those affected by the troubles. This question focuses on discussions with the Scottish Veterans Commissioner about its impact.

Question

What discussions has he had with the Scottish Veterans Commissioner regarding the Northern Ireland Troubles Bill? The Bill will affect veterans across the UK, necessitating Scotland's involvement in understanding its implications.

Answer from Kirsty McNeill

I can confirm that the Scottish Veterans Commissioner met the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland in December. The Government is committed to delivering truth and accountability through the Northern Ireland Troubles Bill, which will put in place deliverable protections designed in line with human rights obligations.

Answered
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Q2 Robin Swann Ulster Unionist Party South Antrim
Northern Ireland Veterans
Context

The Northern Ireland Troubles Bill aims to provide accountability for those affected by the troubles. The previous Act did not adequately support veterans in legacy processes.

Question

Did the Secretary of State for Scotland meet with the Scottish Veterans Commissioner regarding the Northern Ireland Troubles Bill? That legislation will significantly impact veterans across the UK, making it crucial for Scotland's involvement and understanding of its effects.

Answer from Kirsty McNeill

I would be delighted to meet with the Scottish Veterans Commissioner, but as the hon. Gentleman will appreciate, the Northern Ireland Office leads on such matters.

Not addressed: Whether there was a meeting between the Secretary of State for Scotland and the Scottish Veterans Commissioner

How: I Would Be Delighted To Meet With The Scottish Veterans Commissioner

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Q3 Martin Rhodes Lab Glasgow North
Veterans
Context

The new veterans strategy aims to support veterans, and Glasgow has around 10,000 veterans who need assistance.

Question

Labour promised renewed support for veterans. Can the Minister outline what support the new veterans strategy will provide for the approximately 10,000 veterans in Glasgow?

Answer from Kirsty McNeill

Our new veterans strategy includes £50 million for Valour, the first ever UK-wide Government approach to veterans support. This means clearer pathways to services, better advocacy and a system that understands unique veteran experiences.

Answered
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