Armed Forces Covenant recognised in law for the first time
03 November 2011
The principles of the Armed Forces
Covenant have been enshrined in law for the first time, contained
in the new Armed Forces Act 2011 that received Royal Assent today
(3 November). The Legion conducted a high-profile campaign to
persuade the Government to write the core principles - recognising
the unique nature of Service, ensuring no disadvantage as a result
and, in certain circumstances, special provision - into UK law.
Chris Simpkins, Director General, The Royal British Legion, said: "This is an historic breakthrough - one that the Legion campaigned for vigorously. We applaud the Government's enactment of this. For the first time, serving men and women and their families will see the principles of fair treatment on the statute book. And fairness for our brave Armed Forces can be put to Parliamentary scrutiny. This will benefit all those in Service and their families for generations to come."
Prime Minister David Cameron said: "We made a promise to do more for our Armed Services and to put the military covenant at the heart of our national life. Today we are delivering on that promise - the principles of the covenant are now part of the law of our land and the value we place on our Armed Forces is clear for all to see. We must now live up to these obligations, not just Government but society as a whole, and ensure that our Armed Forces and their families have the support they need and are treated with the dignity they deserve."
The Act creates the requirement for an annual Armed Forces Covenant report to be made to Parliament each year, presented by the Secretary of State for Defence.. This will set out how the Government is supporting our Armed Forces, their families and veterans in key areas such as healthcare, housing and education. An interim report will be made by the end of this year.
The Chief of the Defence Staff, General Sir David Richards, said: "It is poignant that the Armed Forces Bill, which recognises for the first time the existence of the Armed Forces Covenant, should receive Royal Assent during this period of Remembrance. It is a fitting tribute that the legislation should be granted during a time that the Nation is thinking about the sacrifices Service personnel have made and are still making for their country."
For further information:
Susan Cottam, PR Officer, The Royal British Legion
T: 020 3207 2477 M: 07775 017889 E: scottam@britishlegion.org.uk
