The Northern Ireland secretary condemned the Conservative government for the Legacy Act, claiming it made false promises to veterans. This act banned inquests and civil actions during the Troubles and proposed a conditional amnesty for crimes. Labour aims to repeal this act, facing criticism over concerns that it may lead to renewed prosecutions against veterans. Hilary Benn highlighted the cessation of ongoing inquiries into killings related to veterans. Call for better protections for military families and engagement with the veterans community was emphasized amid heated parliamentary debate.
The controversial Legacy Act introduced a ban on inquests and civil actions related to incidents during the Troubles and sought to offer a conditional amnesty for those suspected of crimes.
Labour is in the process of repealing the Legacy Act but has faced backlash for potentially reopening prosecutions against military veterans.
Benn stated that 202 live inquiries into Troubles-related killings had been halted due to the Legacy Act, with calls from military families for answers still ongoing.
Conservative MP Mark Francois criticized the government's plans, stating they represent 'two-tier justice at its worst' and have left veterans in fear of prosecution.
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