TIME FOR ALL POLITICIANS TO SUPPORT THE MILITARY COVENANT (St Albans Liberal Democrats)

St Albans Liberal Democrats <info@stalbanslibdems.org.uk>

TIME FOR ALL POLITICIANS TO SUPPORT THE MILITARY COVENANT

October 5, 2009 12:58 PM

Sandy Walkington, Liberal Democrat Candidate for St Albans has formally pledged his support for the Royal British Legion's military covenant campaign to get a better deal for the British Armed Forces family.

Sandy met with representatives from The Royal British Legion to discuss the Legion's manifesto for the next general election.

The manifesto sets out priorities for the next Government to improve conditions for the British Armed Forces past and present and their families. It encourages MPs and prospective parliamentary candidates (PPCs) to "do their bit" for Service Personnel and their families, the bereaved, veterans and dependants.

"This was a very easy ask," Sandy said. "Many of my family have been in the armed forces. My father was a regular soldier. My grandfather went to France in 1914 with the British Expeditionary Force as an 'old contemptible', then joined the Royal Flying Corps, was a founder member of the RAF and served right through the Second World War. Two of my uncles were killed in the Second World War and great uncles were killed in the First World War.

"We demand a lot from our armed forces and we owe it to them to treat them and their families right - not just when they are serving but afterwards as well. Shockingly poor pay for the lower ranked personnel, inadequate kit, terrible military housing, and too little care for ex-service people all leave a very bad taste in the mouth. That is why we have to be firm about upholding the military covenant - we have a duty to stand by those who are serving and those who have served."

Kevin Shinkwin, the Legion's Head of Public Affairs, said, "We're really grateful to Sandy for making the time to meet with us and listen to our concerns. Our message to every candidate standing at the general election is very simple: 'It's time to do your bit'.

"The entire Armed Forces family needs the support of politicians from all parties," he added. "Our manifesto outlines practical ways the next government can help, and we hope all the parties will give it serious consideration".