Military veterans who participated in nuclear weapons tests are pursuing legal claims against the Ministry of Defence (MoD), alleging that their medical records have been unlawfully withheld. In response, the veterans have offered to resolve their claims through a “special tribunal” to expedite the process and achieve a fair resolution.
The legal action stems from concerns raised by veterans and their next-of-kin regarding health issues they attribute to their participation in nuclear tests conducted between 1952 and 1967 in Australia and the South Pacific. Alleged health problems include cancer, blood disorders, and birth defects among descendants.
Nuclear Veterans (Credits: Central Fife Times)
The veterans petitioned Downing Street and proposed the establishment of a special tribunal to efficiently address their claims. They argue that such a tribunal would facilitate a thorough investigation, compensation, and acknowledgment of alleged victims.
Central to the veterans’ claims is the contention that their blood and urine samples, collected during the Cold War weapons trials, have been reclassified as “scientific data” and placed at the Atomic Weapons Establishment, preventing access to crucial medical records.
The MoD maintains that information is not withheld from veterans but cannot comment on ongoing litigation. Brian Unthank, a veteran from Erith, Kent, shared his experience of battling numerous skin cancers and facing miscarriages, emphasizing the veterans’ quest for truth and justice.
Alan Owen, a descendant of a nuclear veteran and founder of the campaign group LABRATS, stressed the urgency of resolving the issue swiftly due to the advanced age of many survivors.
Nuclear Veterans (Credits: The Mirror)
Veterans have long campaigned for recognition of illnesses they attribute to radiation exposure during nuclear tests. Despite a Supreme Court ruling in 2012 denying compensation claims, veterans insist on the government’s accountability for their health issues.
The veterans’ legal representative, Jason McCue, underscored the urgency of addressing the veterans’ grievances promptly, drawing parallels with other cases of historical injustices left unaddressed for decades.
A crowd-funding initiative has been launched to support the veterans’ legal efforts, highlighting their support for their cause and their determination to achieve justice.
The MoD expressed gratitude to service personnel for their contributions to national security and reiterated the availability of compensation under the War Pensions Scheme.
However, veterans remain steadfast in pursuing accountability and resolution through legal channels, determined to secure acknowledgment of their sacrifices and alleviate their suffering.
