Northern Ireland

Tory MP urges MoD to pay legal fees of British soldiers sent potentially 'incriminating' letters

James Brokenshire said he will look at the issue of the MoD assisting British soldiers
James Brokenshire said he will look at the issue of the MoD assisting British soldiers James Brokenshire said he will look at the issue of the MoD assisting British soldiers

There are mounting calls for the Ministry of Defence to pay the legal costs of veterans of the Troubles who have received potentially "incriminating" letters identifying them as potential witnesses.

Secretary of State James Brokenshire has promised to look into calls for the MoD to pay for the legal fees of veterans contacted this way.

Speaking during a Commons debate on the investigation and prosecution of historic cases in Northern Ireland, Tory MP Andrew Murrison (South West Wiltshire) said the letters are alarming and veterans should be given help in dealing with them.

Addressing Mr Brokenshire, he said: "Would you agree with me that that support should extend to the provision of the cost of engaging a solicitor to advise those who have been sent letters by the Ministry of Defence inviting them to unburden themselves about the events of 30 or 40 years ago in order to assist the police with their inquiries?"

"I'm sure you would not want those individuals to incriminate themselves inadvertently or incriminate those they were operating with all those years ago."

Mr Brokenshire said the British government has always acknowledged its ongoing duty of care to its former soldiers.

He said: "Our policy is that where veterans face allegations concerning actions they took in the course of their duties, taxpayer-funded legal support, including counsel where appropriate, will be provided for as long as it is needed."

Pressed further on whether the MoD will pay for a solicitor for those who are not themselves facing allegations, but being asked to be witnesses, Mr Brokenshire added: "I will certainly take your point away and discuss that with colleagues from the Ministry of Defence to seek clarity for him, and also to seek clarity for those who may be in receipt of those letters."

A number of murders dating back to the conflict are being re-investigated by the authorities.