Lest we forget

My paternal grandfather, Dougie Webb, served in World War II, fighting fascism in Europe. He is one of the reasons why Remembrance Day holds a special place in my heart.

When servicemen returned home in 1945, it was a new Labour government that gave them security for the future – a welfare state, national healthcare and homes for heroes. I am proud that this Labour government is honouring that proud tradition.  

In our first 100 days we have delivered the largest pay rise to our Armed Forces in over 20 years. We have ensured, for the first time ever, that every member of our Armed Forces is paid at least the living wage. Legislation to establish an independent Armed Forces Commissioner will improve service life for our Armed Forces and their families. We have delivered our commitment to make the Veterans card an accepted form of voter ID. We have announced a new ‘cyber pathway’ to attract more talent into our Armed Forces, and build our defences for the future. And we have begun to tackle the recruitment and retention crisis in our Armed Forces by scrapping 100 outdated entry requirements and setting new targets to speed up the recruitment process.

I have been a supporter of the Royal British Legion throughout my life, regularly attending military functions and parades, and running the London Marathon to fundraise for them two years ago.

Thanks to the charity's Count Them In campaign, for the first time ever, the 2021 Census asked if somebody had served in the Armed Forces, which helps us to understand more about our veterans’ lives. 

We now know that, as of 2021, there were 4,412 veterans in the Blackpool South constituency – that’s 5% of our population. Many of the challenges faced by veterans, such as mental and physical ill health, homelessness, unemployment and alcohol abuse are exacerbated in Blackpool where we already have some of the worst statistics and outcomes for these problems. They have a strong advocate in Councillor Major Adrian Hoyle, Blackpool Council’s armed forces champion, who is endlessly committed to engaging with the armed forces community.

Councillor Major Adrian Hoyle 

I have spoken to constituents affected and their stories are harrowing. Blackpool has a strong LGBTQ+ community and a long and proud history of being an inclusive and welcoming place. 

In 1977 the RAF was less accepting. That’s when one of my constituents joined before enjoying a career serving in various places and countries. But his career was cut short in 1982 when he was discharged for no other reason than the fact he was gay. He was interrogated by Military Police for three days and bullied into a confession. He was then told to collect his belongings and was escorted off the base with no money or any idea of where to go. He ended up being homeless and living on the streets for six months.

I am pleased that Labour is working with experts across government to establish an appropriate financial redress scheme for veterans like my constituent, who has never shared his story until now.  For 40 years he has carried this painful experience alone. I am grateful to him for allowing me to share it with the House today. Now, he says, it is time to stand up and be counted.