John Baron MP: Prime Minister differs with Ministers at PMQs over Nuclear Test Veterans

Prime Minister says discussions ongoing

Today during Prime Minister’s Questions, John Baron MP asked the Prime Minister about the British nuclear test veterans. The British Nuclear Test Veterans’ Association (BNTVA), of which John is Patron, is running a campaign in support of the veterans, the aims of which are twofold: to secure oral or written recognition in a statement by the Prime Minister; and the establishment of a £25m Benevolent Fund to help veterans and their descendents meet care costs. The MoD’s position to date is that there is not a case to answer. However, the Prime Minister agreed today that discussions were ongoing. John is now hoping to arrange a meeting.

In the House of Commons, John said,

“The Prime Minister will be aware of a cross-party group of around 80 MPs who are campaigning for recognition for our nuclear test veterans. Given that Britain compares poorly as to how other countries treat their test veterans, and the high incidence of serious illness amongst veterans’ descendants, will the Prime Minister meet us as we have hit a brick wall with the MoD?”

The Prime Minister responded that he would be pleased to carry on discussing the campaign with John.

John said afterwards,

“The Prime Minister’s response differs from his own Ministers. This is to be welcomed. Our campaign has broad support, and is all about recognition – not compensation – for the veterans’ unique service. The BNTVA, other MPs and I are now hoping to arrange a meeting with the Prime Minister.”