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Proceeding contribution from Lindsay Hoyle (Labour) in the House of Commons on Thursday, 8 May 2008. It occurred during Debate on Defence in the World.


Defence in the World

I agree. We need equality for members of our armed forces. They all risk their lives and should get equal recognition. It is important that we recognise what they are doing and that we take the public with us, because they have to recognise what our armed forces are doing on our behalf. I am pleased that the Government have committed £24 million to Headley Court. It is important that there is not just talk, but actual commitment. We are now seeing that, and long may it continue, because we need the right facilities, not just for the people who come back, but for those who have been injured. Our armed forces must wonder about compensation. We have done a lot and put compensation in place, but we must also look at what is awarded in the private sector. We should treat our troops in the same way as an insurance company that pays out for someone who is injured in a car crash or whatever. We should be aiming for that recognition and endeavour. That is the standard of compensation that we should be seeking for our brave troops. What also goes with our troops is accommodation. I know that the Minister of State has said that he is not satisfied with their accommodation and that he is committed to changing that. When troops come back, they expect the best, and that is the only thing that is good enough for them. We should seek nothing less.


Secondary information

Type
Proceeding contribution
Reference
475 c902 
Session
2007-08
Chamber / Committee
House of Commons chamber
Subjects
Armed forces Defence Deployment Casualties Iraq Peacekeeping operations Military bases Military alliances Terrorism Security USA Afghanistan NATO Peace negotiations
Link
View this Proceeding contribution on www.publications.parliament.uk