LUKE Graham MP has welcomed the government’s announcement it is spending around £7bn a year on supporting its military veterans.

During defence questions Luke Graham MP asked the Minister for an update on the Veterans Strategy, and for them to confirm the levels of spending on veterans.

The Clacks MP linked the confirmation to the development from the Cabinet Office in which a record will be taken for the first time on an individual’s ‘veteran’ status.

This will allow the government to find out how many veterans in any given area, and adjust planning on spending and services provision to match the needs of veterans.

He said: “I was pleased to hear that an estimated £7bn is spent on supporting our veterans. It is important we recognise their service, but also support them once they have left our armed forces.

“I am also glad to have supported and see ‘veterans’ status to be included in the next census so we can more accurately measure and plan support for the men and women who have served our country.”