Commenting on today’s statement that the Government is to undertake a Defence White Paper on Armed Forces Welfare, Liberal Democrat Defence Spokesperson in the Lords, Lord (John) Lee, said:

"This White Paper is a step in the right direction. The Government has finally recognised it is failing to meet the needs of our service men and women. A big-picture strategy is long overdue, but it must not become an excuse to put the issue of forces’ welfare on the back burner.

"MPs and Peers also need to look at how we acknowledge and recognise the achievements and bravery of our service personnel.

"Parliament should consider holding an annual Armed Forces Day where both Houses debate defence policy and MPs and Peers host representatives of the units which have returned from conflict and operations overseas."