Concerns are growing among former members of the UK Special Air Service (SAS) regarding national security and the future of special forces recruitment. Veterans warn that legal actions stemming from historical conflicts in Northern Ireland could significantly undermine the operational capacity of the SAS, leaving Britain more vulnerable to threats.
The situation has escalated as the new Legacy Bill progresses through Parliament. This legislation, intended to address historical investigations from the Northern Ireland Troubles, has raised fears among veterans that they may face legal scrutiny decades after their service. According to veteran Robert Craft, aged 68, former members of the SAS are already experiencing a chilling effect on recruitment, which could ultimately compromise the UK’s security.
Impact of Legal Pursuits on Recruitment
Robert Craft, who served a decade with the Parachute Regiment and 14 years with the SAS, has publicly voiced these concerns for the first time. He stated that the ongoing investigations into SAS operations during the Troubles have dissuaded potential recruits from joining, as many young soldiers are apprehensive about the implications of such legacy cases. Craft emphasized, “At such a dangerous time as this, with so many war risks ongoing, the pressure on the SAS could be putting the UK in peril.”
The SAS and Parachute Regiment have reported a significant decline in recruitment numbers, with one squadron seeing a drop attributed to the uncertainty surrounding legacy legislation. Craft remarked that the morale among current forces is low, further exacerbated by the mistrust of the government. “They will still fight for king and country,” he noted, “but in the back of their minds will be ‘what will happen to me afterwards?’”
Currently, many SAS veterans in their late 60s and 70s are facing investigations regarding their actions during their service in Northern Ireland. Lawyers representing the SAS Association suggest that they may pursue legal action against the government if the new legislation does not provide adequate protections for veterans.
Controversy Surrounding the Legacy Bill
The Legacy Bill, which aims to replace existing legislation, proposes to offer protections to veterans while allowing families to seek the truth about past events. However, veterans argue that the bill falls short in safeguarding them from legal repercussions. Under the 1998 Good Friday Agreement, many members of terrorist organizations were granted “comfort letters” that shielded them from prosecution, creating a perceived imbalance in how former soldiers and terrorists are treated.
An internal memo from the SAS Association highlighted the frustrations felt by veterans, stating they are “being put through the wringer with no end in sight.” The memo also pointed out a disparity in investigations, noting that a former Royal Ulster Constabulary (RUC) officer is reportedly 54 times more likely to be scrutinized than a terrorist. Craft articulated a common sentiment among veterans: “When you treat the soldier and the terrorist as equals, you do disarm the soldier.”
The SAS has called for an advisory panel that includes veterans like Craft to contribute to discussions on the legislation. Craft explained the rigorous permissions required for SAS operations, which often necessitate governmental approval up to the Prime Minister level. “All operations with the potential for lethal force were authorised by the PM,” he stated, stressing that these actions were carried out under strict rules of engagement.
In light of these developments, Craft is concerned about the potential ramifications for the UK’s reputation, particularly regarding its military partnerships. He pointed out that allies, including the United States, may question why the UK government is pursuing those who have protected national security. “If we don’t sort this out, then intelligence trading will suffer,” he warned, emphasizing that the operational effectiveness of the SAS could be severely diminished.
The UK government has responded to these concerns, asserting its commitment to veterans. A spokesperson stated, “This Government’s commitment to our Operation Banner veterans is unshakeable.” The spokesperson added that the new Northern Ireland Troubles Bill provides lawful protections designed to work for veterans, indicating ongoing consultations with military representatives to ensure their views are considered as the bill progresses.
As the debate over the Legacy Bill continues, the implications for both current and former members of the SAS remain uncertain, raising important questions about veteran welfare, national security, and the legacy of the Troubles in Northern Ireland.
