Statement on UK Government Veterans Strategy by Minister for
Veterans
Welcome for UK Veterans Strategy
Minister for Veterans has welcomed the launch of a
refreshed Veterans Strategy by the UK Government and the
announcement of additional funding for veterans' support across
the UK, which will benefit the estimated 176,100 veterans
resident in Scotland.
The Scottish Government has endorsed the UK-wide strategy, and
will work with partners across Scotland to develop a new action
plan for Veterans to ensure the strategy's aims are delivered in
devolved areas.
Mr Dey said:
"The Scottish Government greatly values the contributions, skills
and experiences veterans bring to our communities and remains
determined to ensure that Scotland is a destination of choice for
them.
“I was pleased therefore to endorse the new Veterans Strategy on
behalf of the Scottish Government and look forward to working to
ensure we and our partners are taking appropriate action here in
Scotland to deliver its vision and outcomes.
“However, while the strategy is welcome, it is deeply
disappointing that we were given limited opportunity to shape the
proposed Valour Fund despite the UK Government's apparent
commitment to work with the Scottish Government on how any new
UK-wide initiatives are delivered in Scotland.
“As housing and homelessness is a devolved matter, we will seek
to engage more with the MOD on the impact that this aspect of
their announcement has in Scotland.''