60 Days On, Parliament Still To Publish Debate Outcome On Repealing Legacy Act

Parliament has yet to publish the debate outcome. George Simm, retired SAS RSM, reflects on a day of passionate advocacy and government disconnection.

On 14th July, following massive public support, MPs gathered at Parliament to debate repealing the Legacy Act — a law designed to shield veterans of Operation Banner from endless vexatious legal battles.

One of the veterans who made sure to be there was George Simm, a retired RSM of the 22 SAS and former Coldstream Guardsman.

In our video, George offers insights on what happened that day.

It was more of an emotional roller-coaster than a technical meet-up when George and his fellow veterans gathered that day.

Imagine nearly a year’s worth of toil, starting with just a letter to The Times last September. There they were, trying to fathom the outcome of their efforts. They'd managed to draw support from all walks of life, including some pretty high-up folks, down to the average bloke, both civilians and the veterans' community alike.

The petition started by one of the veterans' groups had some big names behind it, like David Davis and Mark Francois. So, the atmosphere was one of anticipation — an blend of hope and a firm acknowledgment that their voices might finally resonate beyond the four walls of government.

Once the debate kicked off, it quickly became clear where the lines were drawn.

George describes a mix of pride and disbelief sitting among the veterans as government reps recited what felt like nonsense. But then, speakers like David Davis, Ian Duncan Smith, and Mark Francois took the floor with powerful speeches, laying out the absurdity of the current Human Rights Act in no uncertain terms.

Labour’s Louise Sandher-Jones, now Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Veterans and People, referred to veterans as “naive”, generating a wave of resentment. She was quickly challenged by Stuart Anderson, Conservative MP for South Shropshire.

The passion in the room was palpable, with the veterans feeling that their message was finally being articulated in Parliament, despite the establishment’s attempts at downplaying their arguments.

So many veterans turned up, overflow rooms had to be provided. One speaker was followed by applause from the veterans in the public area, which was quickly followed by a rebuke from the debate charman: “We don’t have applause in Parliament.”

When the Secretary of State finally responded, it was a huge letdown. George paints a picture of a government disconnected and dismissive, fuelling veteran frustrations. There’s an overwhelming feeling of being brushed aside — not exactly what you hope for after you’ve put your life on the line. Veterans aren't asking for knighthoods or medals — they just want a nod of respect.

Post-debate, the mood shifted towards regrouping and strategising. George mentions that some progress was made, especially in gaining recognition from MPs across the board. But the silence from the bureaucratic behemoth? Deafening. There’s more to come, and you can sense a steely determination in George’s words.

He’s seen firsthand the willingness of people to rally behind their cause. The plan? Connect with all those hidden allies ready to back them up, ensuring that their efforts will keep pricking the sides of those who oppose them.

At the end of the day, it’s about fairness — correcting where things have gone awry with policies.

George reminds us of the grit and sacrifice veterans bring to the table. They’re simply demanding something fair and actionable — fix what’s broken. Just fix it.

Watch the full intreview with George on video here.

You can view the full debate here.