Troops left with cancer to be aided insists MP

VETERANS diagnosed with a deadly form of cancer as a result of their military service will be supported by the government, a defence minister has insisted.

Johnny Mercer said the government’s Office for Veteran Affairs was ‘committed’ to helping forces heroes diagnosed with mesothelioma, a cancer of the lung caused by asbestos.

The veterans minister was responding to a written parliamentary question from Portsmouth South MP, Stephen Morgan.

Mr Mercer said the government ‘will support access to compensation’ for veterans affected by the cancer through either its war pensions scheme or armed forces compensation scheme. He added: ‘ The health and safety of Ministry of Defence personnel is of upmost importance and we are committed to providing a safe working environment including the continued replacement and elimination of asbestos items wherever practicable.