Paul Holmes MP pledges to "do his bit" for British Armed Forces

3.00.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Fri 25th Sep 2009

Paul Holmes, Member of Parliament for Chesterfield, has pledged to do his bit for the British Armed Forces family.

Paul met with representatives from The Royal British Legion at the recent Liberal Democrat party conference in Bournemouth where he was presented with a copy of the Legion's manifesto for the next general election.

The manifesto sets out priorities for the next Government to improve conditions for the British Armed Forces past and present and their families. It encourages MPs and prospective parliamentary candidates (PPCs) to "do their bit" for Service Personnel and their families, the bereaved, veterans and dependants.

Kevin Shinkwin, the Legion's Head of Public Affairs, said, "We're really grateful to Paul Holmes for making the time to meet with us and listen to our concerns. Our message to every candidate standing at the general election is very simple: 'It's time to do your bit'.

"The entire Armed Forces family needs the support of politicians from all parties," he added. "Our manifesto outlines practical ways the next government can help, and we hope all the parties will give it serious consideration".

Paul Holmes said, "I was delighted to meet with The Royal British Legion. The Royal British Legion does excellent work locally and nationally, both providing practical support for the needs of veterans, old and new, and lobbying Government for a better deal. Remembrance Day is already approaching but Afghanistan provides a constant grim reminder of the sacrifices our armed forces make for us. The Military Covenant has been broken and the Government should be held to account for this."

"They have an important role to play in highlighting the needs of the whole Armed Forces family. I have pledged to do my bit and would encourage everyone to do the same by visiting the general election manifesto website - www.timetodoyourbit.org.uk - to find out more."