Strengthening links with our armed forces

THIS Labour Government came into office with a determination to renew the nation’s contract with those who serve, who have served, and their families.

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I've always loved Armed Forces Week. My connection with the Armed Forces is no secret I am incredibly proud to have served in the Royal Marines.

This year's Armed Forces week was an opportunity to reflect on my service and think of the people who I served with, as I do every year.

However, this year was also an opportunity to reflect on the fact we have now had a year of a Labour government that is delivering for our armed forces and their families.

Many of those people that I served with have been let down by successive governments, but this Labour Government is doing things differently.

I’m proud of what we have delivered for service personnel in just 12 months of office.

We're rewarding their dedication and professionalism - with the largest pay rise in over 20 years for our forces last year, and another inflation busting pay rise this year.