Injustice for veterans

IN the tinderbox sectarian world of Northern Ireland, it’s rare to achieve unity. Yesterday, the Government managed it.

Plans to end the shameful witch-hunt of retired soldiers who battled terrorism and protected civilians during the Troubles were vehemently condemned by all sides.

Following the acquittal of two exparatroopers on charges of murdering a known IRA commander in 1972, ministers want to exempt veterans from prosecution over historic shootings.

But families bereaved during that grim chapter of history fear the upshot would be all killers being given amnesty – including the terrorists.

Yet 187 IRA members already have immunity thanks to illegal secret deals stitched up by Tony Blair. It is an affront to justice that they walk free while former servicemen face the dock and prison.

Ministers must strain every sinew to resolve this scandal – or ageing veterans will die with this shadow hanging over them.