Johnny Mercer: 'Time To Deliver' On Legislation For Northern Ireland Veterans

Johnny Mercer has called on the Government to introduce legislation to end prosecutions of veterans who served in Northern Ireland.

The former defence minister was speaking after two former paratroopers were found not guilty of the murder of an Official IRA leader.

Speaking after the verdict, Mr Mercer said: "I'm delighted for the soldiers who can now hopefully go and live the rest of their lives in peace.

"But the Government has made very clear promises, and the Prime Minister has made very clear promises, on legislation to end the relentless pursuit of those who served their country in Northern Ireland.

"It is time to deliver on that."

Mr Mercer left his role as Minister for Defence People and Veterans last month over the lack of legislation to protect British veterans who served during the Troubles.

His successor in the role, Leo Docherty, said a bill designed to protect veterans who served in Northern Ireland would "soon" be brought forward.

Cover image: PA/Alamy.