Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has launched a scathing attack on Conservative ministers, accusing them of failing Afghan veterans by delaying an inquiry into alleged war crimes committed by UK special forces. The row escalated after Defence Secretary Ben Wallace and Veterans Minister Johnny Mercer clashed over the handling of the investigation.
Tensions Rise Over Afghan Inquiry
Starmer, a former Director of Public Prosecutions, criticised the government for "undermining the pursuit of justice" after Wallace suggested that Mercer had "breached trust" by pushing for transparency in the case. The Labour leader argued that veterans deserve answers, not political infighting.
Mercer's Stand for Veterans
Johnny Mercer, a former Army officer, has been vocal about ensuring accountability for alleged extrajudicial killings in Afghanistan between 2010 and 2013. His outspoken stance has reportedly caused friction within government, with some Tory colleagues accusing him of being "obsessed" with the issue.
Wallace's Defence of MoD Position
Defence Secretary Ben Wallace maintains that due process must be followed, stating: "These matters are being properly investigated." However, critics argue the Ministry of Defence has been slow to address the allegations, leaving veterans in limbo.
Political Fallout
The controversy comes at a sensitive time for Rishi Sunak's government, which faces growing pressure to address military misconduct claims while maintaining troop morale. Starmer seized on the division, declaring: "This government would rather protect its reputation than protect those who served."
With a public inquiry expected to take years, the political battle over Britain's military legacy in Afghanistan shows no signs of abating.
