Written question asked by Robert Key (Conservative) on Tuesday, 20 March 2001, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 28 March 2001. It was answered by Lord Moonie (Labour) on Wednesday, 28 March 2001 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, for what reasons responsibility for veterans' affairs has been reduced from Minister of State to Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State level.

Answer: Mr. Key: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence for what reasons responsibility for veterans affairs has been reduced from Minister of State to Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State level. [155327] Dr. Moonie: The appointment of a designated Veterans Minister, with responsibility across Government Departments for ensuring that veterans concerns are understood and addressed in a holistic manner, represents a clear enhancement rather than a reduction in commitment. This change, together with the establishment of a dedicated Ministerial Task Force, reflects the Government's determination that veterans issues should be handled in a co-ordinated way to ensure a properly integrated approach to veterans and their concerns.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 155327; 365 c621W
Session: 2000-01
Subjects: Departmental responsibilities Government departments Ministers Veterans Task Force Veterans
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk