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Rennie calls for independent Armed Forces Ombudsman
May 15, 2006 11:32 AM
Local MP and Liberal Democrat Defence Spokesperson, Willie Rennie, has tabled an Early Day Motion calling for the establishment of an independent Armed Forces Ombudsman, following the tragic deaths of four soldiers at Deepcut Army Barracks. The Motion, which enjoys support from all the major parties, notes that 77% of soldiers who have complained about unfair treatment, harassment and bullying in the Army are not happy with the way their complaint was handled.
Speaking in a debate on deaths in army barracks, Rennie said:
"The deaths at Deepcut have sent shockwaves throughout the armed forces, the Ministry of Defence, the Government and indeed this House. As we know, the Blake Report made 34 important recommendations and suggested that there were systemic failings. Recommendation 26 calls for the establishment of a commissioner of military complaints - an Armed Forces Ombudsman…"
Speaking after the debate, he continued:
"The Government have said they will go away and look at the Blake Report. I will be pressing them to implement its recommendations as soon as possible. In particular, the Ministry of Defence must improve living conditions for soldiers, make special provisions for young recruits and establish an independent Armed Forces Ombudsman.
"Our young men and women, who put their lives on the line for us, deserve to be treated with dignity and deserve to have their complaints properly handled."
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