Military leaders, including those from the Special Air Service (SAS), have publicly called on UK politicians Andy Burnham and Wes Streeting to enact protections for veterans who served in Northern Ireland. The SAS Regimental Association (SASRA) issued a statement expressing determination to prevent what they term 'manifestly unfair treatment' and a 'national shame' impacting these former soldiers and their families.
SASRA is advocating for fairness in the Northern Ireland legacy processes, stating that veterans should not face persecution for carrying out their duties during the Troubles. They are requesting that no proceedings be allowed without compelling new evidence, that key decisions be made outside Northern Ireland, and that there be effective independent oversight.
The SASRA statement echoes the sentiments of the Daily Mail's 'Betrayal of the Brave' campaign. The organization emphasizes that it has never sought immunity, only fairness for veterans.
Colonel Richard Williams, a former SAS Commanding Officer, supported SASRA's remarks. He expressed concern that current political directions might diminish the aggressive, war-fighting nature embodied by the SAS, potentially isolating veterans who understand the realities of combat from positions of authority. He characterized appointments such as Wes Streeting's by Andy Burnham as signaling an 'isolationist and unrealistic vision.'
This demand for action comes as the UK government navigates legislation concerning the legacy of the Troubles. The previous Conservative government championed a Legacy Act that offered legal protections by effectively banning Troubles-era prosecutions and inquests. Labour intends to pass a revised version, the Troubles Bill, which was developed in conjunction with the Irish government. This bill includes a legacy commission to investigate killings from that era and has paved the way for inquests to resume.
However, the political landscape has shifted. Sir Keir Starmer has stepped down as Prime Minister, and John Healey has resigned as Defence Secretary, returning to government as Chancellor. Key figures in Northern Ireland policy, including Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn and Attorney General Lord Hermer, have also left their posts. Their replacements are Chris Bryant and Ellie Reeves, respectively.
The UK government maintains that the Troubles Bill will establish a 'fair and transparent system' for victims' families seeking answers. A government spokesperson stated that the bill will benefit veterans through six protections and will end immunity for terrorists, while also paving the way for new information-sharing arrangements. This legislation, the government claims, follows extensive consultation with victims and families in Northern Ireland and reflects the Joint Framework between the UK and Irish governments.