John Baron MP steps down as Patron of NCCF

MP will remain a supportive friend of the nuclear veterans

Having initially been introduced to the issue by a constituent, for many years John Baron MP has led the successful Parliamentary campaign for recognition for the unique service of the British nuclear test veterans. In the course of this, John became Patron of the Nuclear Community Charity Fund (NCCF) at the request of his friend Jeff Liddiatt. As Jeff, the NCCF Chairman, is handing over the helm of the charity after many years of service, John is also stepping down as Patron.

John said,

“It has been an honour to play my part in securing official recognition of the test veterans’ unique service, and it is good news that the grant we campaigned for from the Aged Veterans’ Fund is helping to improve the lives of so many veterans and their families. All involved in the campaign can look back with great satisfaction.”

“The veterans and I have travelled a long road together, and I believe now is the right time to step down as Patron. It is fitting that this happens at the same time as Jeff Liddiatt also steps down as Chairman – though remaining as a trustee – who has been a brother-in-arms in the campaign and who has given so much time and effort for the cause over many years. I will of course remain a good and supportive friend of the nuclear veterans.”

Outgoing Chairman of the NCCF, Jeff Liddiatt, said,

“Without the support in Parliament of John Baron MP, the road would have been much harder. I step down as NCCF chairman with a happy heart knowing that the cause will go forward in the future under the chairmanship of Tony Jeffery. Tony has been involved for many years in the nuclear community’s cause.”

“From the NCCF’s point of view, it is good to know that John will continue to be a supportive friend of the nuclear community.”

Notes to Editors:

• The nuclear test veterans, who were often on National Service, took part in British nuclear and thermonuclear tests in Australia and the South Pacific in the 1950s and 1960s.
• The Parliamentary campaign led to official recognition from David Cameron as Prime Minister in 2014, and also to the establishment of the Aged Veterans’ Fund at the 2015 Budget to provide grants to veterans and their descendants in need, as well as to fund relevant projects.
• The NCCF was established to administer the funds on behalf of veterans, who are encouraged to apply should they or their descendants be in need (https://thenccf.org).