Military Covenant changes welcomed by Moore
December 13, 2010 9:59 AM
Originally published by Scottish Liberal Democrats
Originally published by Scottish Liberal Democrats
Borders MP Michael Moore has welcomed improvements to the Military Covenant announced this week which will better support Borderers and Scots who have served and are serving in the UK Armed forces.
The Armed Forces Bill was brought to the UK Parliament on Wednesday 8th December and will require the Defence Secretary to present an Armed Forces Covenant report to Parliament every year, setting out how the UK Government is supporting the Armed Forces. A report on the Military Covenant - the agreement between the nation and its military personnel - was published alongside the Bill, recommending ways in which the relationship could be improved.
The UK Government will accept two of these recommendations immediately - the Community Covenant and Chief of Defence Staff Commendations. The first, the Community Covenant, will involve regionally-based schemes to encourage local authorities, organisations and individuals to champion the links between the Armed Forces and their communities. The second, Chief of Defence Staff Commendations, will recognise the work of wider society to support past and present members of the Armed Forces and their families.
Mr Moore commented:
'Last January, I presented a 'Veterans Welfare Bill' to Parliament which would require officials at the Ministry of Defence to report annually to Parliament on the care and support which was being given to veterans.
'I am very pleased that this important legislation to support veterans, and those currently serving in the forces, is finally making it to the statute books. Many of my constituents have served their country overseas and this move recognises the exceptional sacrifice they have made, as well as the responsibility the Government and nation have to care for them.
'The statistics for homelessness and illnesses such as depression among ex-military personnel are shocking and this Armed Forces Bill, alongside improvements to the Military Covenant, demonstrates this Government's commitment to supporting our Armed Forces, during and after their time of service.'
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