Armed Forces Minister Al Carns told the Armed Forces Bill Committee that the current organisational state of the reserves was a "mess" (Picture: House of Commons)

Veterans

Al Carns: 'Amazing' lack of data on veterans available for 'red button' mobilisation event

Armed Forces Minister Al Carns says there's an "amazing" lack of data on those leaving the Armed Forces, which would make a potential recall of veterans difficult if the Government wished to mobilise in a crisis.

Speaking before the committee scrutinising the passage of the new Armed Forces Bill, the former Royal Marines Commando described the current organisation of the reserves force as a "mess" and said he hopes the rollout of digital veteran ID cards can become the "foundation of a far greater programme to collect data" on veterans and communicate more effectively with them.

Mr Carns made the statement whilst giving evidence to the Select Committee reviewing the Armed Forces Bill.

If the bill is introduced, reforms in spring 2027 would increase the maximum age limit for veteran recall to service from 55 to 65, part of efforts to build up the strategic reserve made up of former servicemen and women beyond the current strength of 95,000.

The bill would also bring separate reserve forces under one single body and enable the Secretary of State to issue call-out orders for the Strategic Reserve for "warlike operations".

The bill will also strengthen protection for victims of sexual abuse by Armed Forces personnel

"It is amazing, the lack of data we have on those that have served," Mr Carns told the cross-party panel of MPs.

"If you need to press the red button and mobilise, our ability to know who is where, what skills they have, how we can pull them back in is exceptionally difficult. We've got to re-write that."

The bill would be the "first stage" towards helping the Government in data collection and recall veterans if they need to, he continued, adding that the option to cut ties with the forces as a veteran must be left open to achieve a balance with those who wish to stay connected.

Those still serving would have to 'opt out' of the new terms of service under the Armed Forces Bill, while the committee heard a social media campaign is being prepared to encourage those who've already left to 'opt in'.

Veteran ID cards were introduced in digital form in late 2025, with the rollout designed to offer smoother access to specialised services.

When asked about the identification and tracking of reserves, the Armed Forces Minister said records of the whereabouts and skillsets of ex-personnel are the focus of an ongoing digital endeavour within the MOD.

"The veterans digital ID card I would like to see as the baseline and foundation of a far greater programme to collect data on veterans and start to centralise and manage our veterans cohort, and indeed communicate more effectively with them," he said.

The ability to "unlock HMRC records for pensions" and "cross pollinate data-sets" could also be explored, he said, were specific cohorts to be identified for recall to service.

Mr Carns again caveated this process with respect for those who "do not wish to stay in contact with defence".

Beyond reserve force strength, measures introduced under the Armed Forces Bill would also impact defence housing, the cadet forces, and the Service Justice System – particularly regarding victim support and protection.