Today, new legislation is being introduced to the House of Commons today to provide better protections and care for veterans and personnel.
The Armed Forces Bill has been welcomed by Caroline Dinenage MP, who has commended the legislation for bringing important improvements for armed forces personnel across the Gosport Constituency.
The Bill will enshrine the Armed Forces Covenant in law and ensure that personnel have equal and better access to essential services such as healthcare, housing and education.
The Armed Forces Covenant, which was launched in 2011, has now over 6000 business, charities and public organisations who have pledged to support veterans, serving personnel and families. This includes providing part-time or flexible working contracts, and free training, for military partners, reservists and veterans.
In addition, the Bill will ensure clear, fair and equal access to justice through the Service Justice System, including creating a new independent body to oversee complaints and clear guidance for prosecutors on how serious cases should be handled.
Caroline commented:
“I am looking forward to supporting the Armed Forces Bill as it progresses through Parliament, introducing new, important protections for our veterans and personnel.
“Our personnel and their families give up so much to not only defend our country, but assist national and global efforts such as in our current battle against COVID-19.
“They deserve as much support and care that we can give them, and this Bill will go a long way to giving them equal and fair access to essential services across the Gosport Constituency and country.”
Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said:
“For the first time ever we are putting into law the Armed Forces Covenant. This will break new ground, ensuring we live up to the principles of the Covenant and treating all UK Armed Forces personnel, veterans and their families with fairness.
“It builds on progress we have already made, helping veterans into work through our guaranteed interview scheme, supporting service families with childcare, and providing personnel with more choice of accommodation.”
