Liberal Democrats urge better deal for armed forces

11.38.12am GMT Mon 17th Dec 2007

Armed forces deserve more from the Government

Liz Leffman, Prospective Liberal Democrat MP for Meon Valley, is calling on the Government to renew the Military Covenant and improve the treatment received by the armed forces.

This follows the publication by the Liberal Democrats of Our Nation's Duty, an action plan for improving armed forces welfare, including the upgrading of service accommodation and improved medical care and counselling.

Liz said: "For decades British governments, both Labour and Conservative, have failed to invest in fair treatment for our troops and they are at breaking point. Poor quality accommodation, inadequate care, and critical overstretch are just some of the ways they are being let down.

"Gordon Brown slashed spending on the armed forces while Chancellor and, as Prime Minister, has been more concerned with photo opportunities at camp that hide reality rather than actually resolving issues.

"The last Conservative Government is also to blame for the shoddy housing, faulty equipment and inadequate medical care that our troops deal with.

"The Liberal Democrats have been calling on ministers to provide fairer compensation for our troops, better medical care, support for personnel and support for bereaved families and cannot wait any longer for the Government to act.

"We have a duty of care to all our servicemen and women who show bravery and courage in adversity and risk the ultimate sacrifice for their country - and this plan gives that duty of care."

The Liberal Democrat action plan includes -

• A new Strategic Defence Review that takes account of the new international situation

• An assurance from politicians that the armed forces will not intervene without providing necessary resources, manpower and equipment that ensures our personnel are secure in the commitment

• A parliamentary committee to conduct an annual review of the state of the covenant

• A ring-fenced budget for welfare and accommodation within the Defence Budget

• Improved medical care and counselling for troops returning from service

• Further funding to allow all armed forces accommodation to be assessed at the highest standard

http://www.libdems.org.uk/media/documents/parliament/Our_Nations_Duty_Dec07.pdf