Veterans Granted Ear at No.10 as Troubles Legislation Moves Forward

A delegation of paras met officials in Downing Street just days after the Government voted to carry its Troubles legislation into the next parliamentary session.

A delegation led by former Parachute Regiment Major-General Dair Farrar-Hockley met officials at No.10 this week to raise concerns over the Government’s proposed approach to Troubles legacy legislation, in a meeting described as both “cordial” and potentially the first of several.

The meeting, which included representatives from the Ministry of Defence, the Northern Ireland Office, and Downing Street policy teams, took place under Chatham House rules. While specific details remain confidential, those present indicated that their concerns were heard—and, in some cases, recognised.

Speaking immediately afterwards, Major-General Farrar-Hockley emphasised that the delegation represented not only the Parachute Regiment but also the broader community of those who served during Operation Banner, including members of the Special Air Service and the Royal Ulster Constabulary.

“We felt reassured that not only someone was listening,” he said, “but that some of the issues we raised were already resonating.”

At the centre of those concerns is what many veterans describe as a return to a “failed approach” to legacy investigations—one they argue disproportionately targets former soldiers and police officers while offering little realistic prospect of resolution for families.

The Government’s stated aim—“justice, information and answers for all”—was challenged directly. With approximately 1,200 deaths still unresolved, Farrar-Hockley warned that the chances of delivering meaningful outcomes after nearly three decades are “vanishingly small.”

The timing of the legislation has also drawn criticism. The vote to carry the Bill forward comes amid renewed emphasis on defence readiness, following warnings from figures such as Fiona Hill that the UK is falling behind in the face of emerging threats.

For those who attended the meeting, the issue is not simply historical. It is tied directly to the present and future of military service.

“The first duty of any government is the defence of the realm,” Farrar-Hockley said. “This is the time to act.”

Alongside him, Paul Young of the Northern Ireland Veterans Movement described a growing sense of mobilisation across the veterans’ community.

Having previously welcomed the now-contested Legacy Act as a means of halting what he described as “lawfare,” Young said recent developments have forced campaigners back into action.

“We thought we had reached a position that, while not perfect, was workable,” he said. “Now we’re back on the campaign trail.”

According to Young, veteran-led groups—collectively representing well over 100,000 individuals—are increasingly aligning their efforts. Organisations connected to campaigns such as Operation Banner veterans’ advocacy, former soldiers’ groups, and wider support networks are moving towards a more coordinated approach.

He also struck a more sceptical note on the meeting itself, questioning the significance of its location in Downing Street.

“There was no need for it to be held in No.10,” he said. “It could have been held anywhere.”

Despite that, both men confirmed that further engagement has been agreed, with additional meetings expected.

Politically, the path ahead remains uncertain. Young pointed to the possibility of changes within government in the coming months, suggesting that leadership shifts—whether at Prime Ministerial or departmental level—could yet alter the direction of policy.

What appears clear is that the issue is not receding. If anything, the opposite is happening.

Veterans’ groups, including senior figures and regimental associations, are beginning to converge—seeking to present a more unified front as the legislation progresses.

“It’s not over,” Young said. “Far from it.”

To listen to their comments in full, listen to the One More Mission podcast episode featuring an extended discussion with those present at the meeting.

Listen to the full podcast here: