Yesterday's heroes shouldn't be today's defendants
Veterans Commissioners Unite Against Proposed Changes to Operation Banner Legislation
The Veterans Commissioners for Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales have jointly voiced strong opposition to potential legislative changes that could expose Northern Ireland veterans to prosecution for their service during Operation Banner (1969-2007).
In a statement released ahead of a Westminster debate scheduled for July 14, 2025, the Commissioners emphasised the unique challenges faced by the 250,000 service personnel deployed during Britain's longest continuous military operation, which resulted in 1,441 military casualties.
The Commissioners stressed that while they support principles of justice and accountability, they oppose retrospective legal action against veterans who operated under lawful orders. They particularly criticised the reopening of cases that have already undergone thorough investigation, arguing this practice "retraumatises veterans and undermines public confidence."
"There can be no moral equivalence between those who served in uniform to uphold peace and the rule of law, and those who sought to destroy it through acts of terrorism," the statement declared.
The joint statement comes amid ongoing discussions about military conduct during The Troubles. The Commissioners have been actively engaging with the Minister for Veterans and People to establish appropriate safeguards for veterans, particularly those considered most vulnerable.
While not seeking immunity from law, the Commissioners are calling for "clarity, finality, and respect" for veterans' service. They emphasised that any future legislative changes must be "measured, fair, and informed by the voices of veterans themselves."
The Westminster debate will consider a motion opposing changes to legislation that would allow prosecution of Northern Ireland veterans for actions taken during their service in Operation Banner.
While Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales have Veterans Commissioners, England has none.
Read the statment here.
Parliament will debate the petition on 14 July 2025.
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You'll be able to watch online on the UK Parliament YouTube channel.
Indeed, however this is what happens when you are on the ‘losing’ side in a conflict. It is a hard pill to swallow for us, but the British Government surrendered to the PROVOS, and thus we are in the dock for war crimes, while they run the country.
Ah Yes they should