Keir Starmer has committed to meeting with victims of radiation experiments in the UK, responding 435 days after their initial request. The Prime Minister assured this during an encounter with a BBC journalist, reaffirming his pledge to nuclear veterans that their cause is also his own. He acknowledged the injustice they have faced, expressing willingness to meet them by the year’s end.
Advocates sought a discussion on the Nuked Blood Scandal, following revelations by the Mirror of secret human radiation trials on military personnel. Samples were taken during Cold War weapon tests, with records altered to conceal the results. Officials, ministers, and legal representatives denied the program’s existence for years, even in legal proceedings and parliamentary sessions.
Thames Valley Police is conducting a significant review into allegations of widespread misconduct in public office related to the scandal. The Mirror alerted Mr. Starmer to the issue in September 2023, and he requested updates on the investigation from the newspaper’s team at Downing Street.
After the election, the LABRATS campaign group wrote to Starmer requesting a meeting, receiving no response. They reiterated the request in meetings with junior ministers. A viral video highlighting Labour ministers’ promises of compensation has garnered nearly 9 million views.
The PM professed ignorance of the veterans’ meeting request, pledging to follow up on it. John Morris, a veteran of Operation Grapple who suffered health issues from exposure during bomb tests, including the loss of his infant son, attributed blame to officials. He expressed belief in Starmer’s sincerity and hoped for a meeting to address their concerns without resorting to costly legal action.
LABRATS founder Alan Owen proposed a one-year special tribunal as a solution, emphasizing the urgency due to the advancing age of the veterans. They are prepared to engage with the appropriate individuals to facilitate the process efficiently.