Labour has delivered significant improvements for Armed Forces personnel and families during its first 11 months in office, including the largest pay rise in over 20 years, according to Portsmouth MP Amanda Martin.
Writing during Armed Forces Week, Ms Martin MP emphasises how the Labour Government entered office determined to renew Britain’s commitment to serving personnel, veterans, and military families – those who risk their lives daily for national security and the families who support them through tremendous sacrifice.
“They represent the finest of our nation. Whilst this matters nationwide, it should be central to daily life in our city,” states the Portsmouth MP.
As a mother of serving Royal Navy personnel, Ms Martin understands the significance of Armed Forces Day for service members and their families. She recalls standing in Old Portsmouth earlier this year with the Armed Forces Minister, watching HMS Prince of Wales depart for joint carrier strike group operations.
“A mother from Cosham, whose son served aboard the Prince of Wales, approached us saying ‘in an uncertain world my special cargo is on that ship and I’m proud you’re here to witness what this means to us,'” Ms Martin recounts.
During Portsmouth’s Armed Forces Day celebrations, the MP reflects on such families and every mother’s ‘special cargo’, expressing pride in Labour’s achievements for service personnel.
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Key Labour Achievements
The Government has implemented several major reforms:
Pay and Compensation: Service personnel received their largest pay increase in over two decades last year, followed by another inflation-beating rise this year, recognising their dedication and professionalism.
Military Housing: Labour is returning the military housing estate to public ownership, purchasing 36,000 military homes and investing over £7 billion in military accommodation this Parliament. This addresses long-term deterioration, increases urgent repairs and renovations, and provides suitable homes for heroes.
Veterans Support: The new VALOUR system ensures veterans can more easily access housing, employment, and health services. Ms Martin notes disappointment that Portsmouth City Council hasn’t yet joined this system, stating: “As the Royal Navy’s home, it should champion veterans in our city and seize such opportunities.”
Armed Forces Commissioner: This month saw the launch of the search for the UK’s first Armed Forces Commissioner – an independent advocate for serving personnel and families, providing direct contact for raising issues affecting service life including housing, equipment, and welfare. Ms Martin contributed to developing this role.
Recruitment Reform: The Government is overhauling outdated recruitment practices, creating more opportunities and jobs nationally whilst attracting top talent to the forces. The Strategic Defence Review aims to increase the Cadet force by 30% by 2030, encouraging young people to consider Armed Forces careers whilst learning essential life skills.
National Recognition
Ms Martin emphasises Labour’s commitment to reversing 14 years of Conservative defence failures, recognising the crucial need to reconnect Britain with serving personnel and strengthen links between the Armed Forces community and society.
“In recognition of this change, I’m proud the Government is enhancing Armed Forces Day by restoring the National Event,” she states.
This year witnessed 180 local events across the UK marking Armed Forces Day, including Portsmouth’s celebration, which Ms Martin attended. She met numerous veterans, service personnel, charities, and organisations, describing the volunteer work supporting those who serve and have served as inspiring.
“In this new era of threat, we must build society’s understanding of what the Armed Forces do to deter threats and keep us safe. We must also honour those who served in previous decades,” Ms Martin concludes.
“This week and every week, I hope you will join me in paying tribute to and celebrating those who serve, who have served, and our wider Forces community.”
