Labour has briefed that it will prevent Gerry Adams from claiming compensation under new Troubles legislation. It’s not washing…
New legislation is starting in the Commons today with a “Remedial Order” that will allow cases to be brought against Northern Ireland veterans before Christmas. The Tories have mustered a chorus of senior opposition to the provisions of the Legacy Bill…
Shadow Armed Forces Minister, Mark Francois, said:
“Labour’s shameful betrayal of our brave Army veterans, without whose service against terrorists there would never have been a Good Friday Agreement, begins its passage through Parliament today. A related motion, as confirmed in the Anglo-Irish Legacy Framework, will also allow Gerry Adams to recommence his lawsuit to sue the British taxpayer for ‘compensation.’”
General Sir Nick Parker, Commander-in-Chief, Land Forces 2010–2012, said:
“By reopening investigations, there is no genuine safeguard for veterans and it amounts to torture by the State of those who risked their lives following orders. This undermines morale, operational decisiveness, and the credibility of UK commitments to allies. Confidence in command is the foundation of security. You cannot defend tomorrow if you keep relitigating yesterday.”
Colonel Nick Kitson (Rtd), CO 3 Rifles 2008–2010; SAS Squadron Commander 2002–2004, said:
“It seems this Government has now confirmed it has no interest in standing by the past lawful actions of individuals in our Armed Forces, carried out under the policies of previous governments, when it doesn’t suit their current political or ideological agendas. This is a big blow for national security. How can anyone volunteer to put their life on the line for a government – indeed a nation – that does not have their back?”
Lt Colonel Richard Williams, Commanding Officer, 22 SAS 2005–2007, said:
“The veterans of Northern Ireland clearly have to endure yet more betrayal by false friends in government – and to what end? For who is this treachery conceived? And what message does this bonfire of trust send to those that serve today, and are thinking of joining tomorrow?”
The bill will be laid today with a vote likely before Christmas. Primary legislation could take months if not a year to pass at least. The previous Legacy Act took 18 months…
Labour’s remedial order is removing the provisions of the Immunity Scheme which protects veterans as well as blocks on civil proceedings stopped by the previous Tory act. Opening a window to legal claims…
