Thank you for contacting me about the Overseas Operations Bill.
Victims of torture need to know that their allegations will be taken with the utmost seriousness and I am confident that the Bill makes provision for justice to be pursued in such cases.
The Overseas Operations Bill is designed to give service personnel and veterans the protections needed in prosecution cases. As you are aware, there is a presumption against prosecution over allegations that happened more than 5 years ago. However, the Bill makes clear that there are exceptions to the 5-year principle. If an exceptional case is brought forward, it will be pursued.
I believe it is right that service personnel are held to the highest standards of behaviour and conduct. This Bill ensures that credible allegations are investigated and pursued where necessary but also that our Armed Forces will be protected from the vexatious claims and repeated investigations that so many have suffered in recent years.
Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.
Craig Whittaker MP
October 2020