Keir Starmer has committed to meeting with victims of Britain’s radiation experiments, responding to their request 435 days after it was made. The Prime Minister assured this during an encounter with a BBC reporter, affirming his pledge to nuclear veterans that their cause is his as well.
Acknowledging the injustice suffered by the victims, Starmer expressed willingness to meet them, aiming for a meeting by the end of the year. This meeting is sought by campaigners seeking to address the Nuked Blood Scandal, revealed by the Mirror, which exposed human radiation experiments conducted on military personnel during Cold War weapons tests.
Following the uncovering of this scandal, Thames Valley Police is conducting a substantial review into allegations of widespread misconduct in public office. The Mirror brought this scandal to Starmer’s attention in September 2023, prompting him to request updates on the investigation from their team at Downing Street.
Campaign group LABRATS has been persistent in requesting a meeting with Starmer, with no response after the election. In the face of mounting pressure, including a viral video highlighting Labour ministers’ promises of compensation, Starmer expressed surprise at not having been aware of the veterans’ request, pledging to address it promptly.
One of the affected veterans, Operation Grapple veteran John Morris, who suffered health issues linked to his involvement in the tests, expressed hope in Starmer’s sincerity to meet with them. He attributed the lack of response to possible interference from the Establishment but emphasized the desire for a simple dialogue with the Prime Minister to avoid costly legal battles.
LABRATS founder Alan Owen proposed a solution to Starmer, suggesting a one-year special tribunal to address the veterans’ concerns promptly, considering the advancing age of the veterans involved. The group is ready to engage with the necessary stakeholders to reach a resolution swiftly.