In 2006, I received a call from Craig Prescott seeking help to address the injustice faced by his late father, Roy. Roy, a participant in nuclear weapons testing, passed away without receiving a war pension due to the Ministry of Defence’s refusal to accept responsibility. Despite Craig’s efforts, it was revealed that British troops involved in American tests were not compensated, unlike their American counterparts.
Having worked as a defense reporter in Plymouth, I was well-versed in MoD operations and nuclear risks. Craig’s determination to seek justice for his father was inspiring and contagious. The Mirror had been advocating for veterans since 1984 when Paul Foot highlighted the health issues faced by ex-soldiers. The persistence of veterans and their families eventually led to a breakthrough, with the government announcing a medal for their service.
The journey was not without challenges, as legal battles and revelations of governmental cover-ups unfolded. The veterans’ fight for recognition and compensation gained momentum, revealing the extent of the Nuked Blood Scandal. This scandal triggered a ministerial inquiry, a police review, and the declassification of thousands of documents, uncovering the truth behind the veterans’ health issues.
The campaign for justice continues, with ongoing efforts to shed light on the atrocities suffered by those involved in nuclear testing. Despite this being my final column for the Mirror, I extend my gratitude to all readers and colleagues who supported this cause over the past 13 years.
