Today's coverage includes Afghan interpreters and Armed Forces welfare.
Afghan interpreters
The Daily Mail carries a story about the Defence Secretary’s decision to expand relocation eligibility criteria for Afghan interpreters.
An MOD spokesperson said:
“Following the Defence Secretary’s decision to expand relocation eligibility for Afghan interpreters, our specialist team is working hard to identify which interpreters are eligible for relocation.
“Establishing the eligibility of interpreters and their families and then relocating them clearly takes time, as it requires close collaboration with other Government departments, the Afghan Government and the International Organisation for Migration.
“We encourage any former interpreters to call our team in Kabul if they think they are eligible for relocation.”
Armed Forces welfare
The Armed Forces charity SSAFA report that they have received an 11% increase in calls to their helpline in the last six months. The Minister for Defence People and Veterans, Tobias Ellwood, appeared on Good Morning Britain today to highlight the Veterans’ Gateway, the Veterans’ Board and a new helpline.
A government spokesperson said:
“We deeply value the welfare of our serving personnel and veterans, and we encourage anyone in need to take advantage of the range of support available. This includes our two 24 hour helplines which can provide advice on topics from mental health to housing and finances.
“We are also committed to ensuring disabled people get the right financial support and are spending more than £50 billion a year to support them and those with health conditions.”
Image of the day
2018 RAF Photographic Competition - Category M People's Choice - SAC Laura Bullas RIGC(NI) - 'Belly Up'. Image was taken from the back seat of a Typhoon T2, by an RAF Photographer during a 6 Squadron sortie as part of Exercise Magic Carpet, Oman.