Nigel Farage, the leader of Reform UK, made a significant pledge yesterday to protect Special Forces personnel who are facing legal scrutiny over their actions during conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq. Speaking at the launch of Veterans For Reform, Mr Farage accused Keir Starmer's Government of pursuing an agenda that targets the SAS and threatens the future of this elite regiment.
Defence of Military Veterans
Mr Farage offered pardons for any soldiers prosecuted under what he described as 'dubious codes' of conduct. He emphasised that the ongoing attacks on the Special Forces are having a 'catastrophic' effect on recruitment, arguing that this undermines national security and morale within the armed forces.
Criticism of Labour's Policies
In his speech, Mr Farage claimed that the current Government is 'led by human rights lawyers' and is 'prepared to bow down to a vague concept of international law from foreign courts'. He added that it lacks a 'patriotic bone in its body', highlighting his view that the administration is not adequately supporting military veterans.
The Reform UK leader pointed to recent legislative changes, noting that last week, Labour MPs voted to remove clauses from the Legacy Act. These clauses, championed by former veterans minister Johnny Mercer, had offered immunity from vexatious prosecutions and barred civil actions related to the Troubles in Northern Ireland.
Impact on Legal Proceedings
Following the Prime Minister's intervention, hundreds of civil actions—most of which are brought by republicans against the British state—are expected to proceed. Additionally, inquests that were previously stayed as a result of the Legacy Act are now anticipated to move forward, potentially increasing legal pressures on veterans.
Mr Farage's defence of the SAS comes at a time when the regiment faces allegations of illegal killings in conflicts post-dating the Troubles. He stated, 'We are going to stand up and fight for the rights of our military veterans, none of whom should be left behind.'
Broader Context and Campaigns
The Daily Mail has been actively campaigning for the restoration of veterans' rights, which it argues have been dismantled by Labour. This aligns with Mr Farage's calls for greater protection and support for those who have served in the military.
Looking ahead, Lord Justice Haddon-Cave is expected to deliver his judgment in the Independent Inquiry Relating to Afghanistan sometime next year, which could further influence the legal landscape for Special Forces personnel.
