Support for Veterans 2026-07-06
2026-07-06
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP is concerned about veterans' access to mental health services, particularly those dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder.
Twiggy Roberts, a veteran himself and runs HX Motors in my constituency, trains other veterans. He says that he hears from many veterans of his generation about their frustrations trying to gain access to the mental health services they need and deserve. What conversations is the Secretary of State having with Cabinet colleagues, particularly those in the Department of Health and Social Care, to ensure veterans can get this support?
I am grateful for raising this issue. We will have conversations with colleagues across Government to ensure that services are in place to provide support for those who need it. There is an important role for the NHS, and we work closely with the Department of Health and Social Care.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific details on mental health service access and conversations with Cabinet colleagues were not provided
We Are Working To Ensure Services
Role For The Nhs
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP met Gurkha veterans who highlighted long-standing issues such as pension problems, underscoring the urgent need for resolution.
Talking to some of the Gurkha veterans at the Nepal cup event in Aldershot, I heard about their experiences and frustrations with unresolved issues like pensions. Will the Secretary of State explain how he will build on this work so that Gurkha veterans receive the support they deserve?
I am grateful for your work to champion our Gurkhas and I hope you understand we are working through an engagement plan with stakeholders, including G10. The Minister for Veterans and People is providing assurances.
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Assessment & feedback
Details on the engagement plan and specific support measures were not provided
Working Through Details
Providing Assurances
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP welcomed the new Minister for Veterans and People, highlighting his independent mind and commitment to speaking truthfully. He then asked about the Labour Government's Northern Ireland Troubles Bill.
I welcome the incoming Minister for Veterans and People, known for independence of thought and fearlessly speaking truth to power. What does the Secretary of State think was meant by the former Armed Forces Minister describing the Labour's Northern Ireland Troubles Bill as 'unfit for purpose'?
This Government are committed to the troubles Bill but determined to ensure that everyone involved, including families and veterans, is treated with fairness, dignity, and respect. We will introduce substantial amendments for veteran protections.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific meaning behind 'unfit for purpose' was not clarified
Committed To The Bill
Introducing Amendments
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP questioned the Labour Government's Northern Ireland Troubles Bill, which has been criticized for its impact on veterans. He asked about the likely new Prime Minister's stance.
We have waited for amendments almost as long as we've waited for the DIP. Where is Andy Burnham on this issue? Will our new Prime Minister do right by former soldiers from his region, scrap the Bill which helps Sinn Féin pursue our veterans via lawfare and get rid of it altogether?
I genuinely want to find a way forward that attracts cross-party support but remind some Conservative Members that the previous Government's Act left veterans with no certainty and protection. This Government will bring new primary legislation legally compliant and recognising our veterans' interests.
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Assessment & feedback
Details on scrapping the Bill were not provided
Way Forward
Legally Compliant
Response accuracy
Q5
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP raised concerns about mental health support for veterans, especially those suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder.
Twiggy Roberts, a veteran running HX Motors in my constituency, says he hears a lot from his generation of veterans about their frustrations trying to access the mental health services they need. What conversations is the Secretary of State having with Cabinet colleagues to ensure these veterans receive support?
I am grateful for this important issue. We will have conversations with colleagues across Government to ensure that services are in place to provide support. There is an important role for the NHS, which we work closely with.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific details on mental health access and discussions were not provided
Having Conversations
Role For The Nhs
Response accuracy