Today’s defence news includes coverage the final voyage of HMS Illustrious and pick up of investigations of British personnel in Northern Ireland.
Northern Ireland Investigations
The Sun (p1) has reported that former servicemen who served in Northern Ireland may face investigations into their role in Northern Ireland during the Troubles.
The Daily Mail (p4) and The Times (p2) also picked this up.
An MOD spokesperson said:
The overwhelming majority of those who served in Northern Ireland did so with great bravery and distinction. Any member of the military affected by this process will rightly be supported throughout and will receive free MOD legal representation.
Marine A
The Daily Mail (p4-5) has continued to focus on the case of Marine A and its support of the former marine, making speculative links to IHAT cases.
An MOD spokesperson said:
The IHAT investigations continue as usual. It would be inappropriate to speculate on how an entirely separate, ongoing case, may theoretically impact on another.
HMS Illustrious
As well as featuring on The Independent’s (p1) front page, the final voyage of HMS Illustrious was widely reported this morning. The Sun (p6), the Telegraph (p18) and the Mirror (p25) focus on the history of the ship and the relationship between her, her sailors and the nation.
Defence Secretary Sir Michael Fallon said:
Over three decades Illustrious set the highest standards for service that the Royal Navy will continue with HMS Queen Elizabeth when she arrives into Portsmouth next year. Backed by a rising defence budget, our new aircraft carriers will lead a growing Royal Navy as Britain steps up to defend our country and our interests.
