New veterans’ role for North Devon’s MP
Ian Roome has been appointed as the new Liberal Democrat spokesperson for veterans and those serving in the armed forces
North Devon’s MP has been chosen as the new liberal Democrat champion for veterans and people in the armed forces.
Ian Roome was appointed to the new national role of veterans and service personnel spokesperson by party leader Sir Ed Davey following a shake-up of its front bench team.
Mr Roome is an RAF veteran, serves on Parliament’s cross-party Defence Select Committee and is a graduate of the Royal College of Defence Studies.
The appointment comes as the Liberal Democrats say they are stepping up their work on defence and veterans’ affairs, focusing on tackling recruitment and retention challenges, improving military housing and ensuring our armed forces have the training, equipment and support they need.
The South West has the highest proportion of veterans and serving personnel of any region of the UK and Ian Roome has made it one of his priorities since being elected to properly represent the armed forces community and ensure their concerns are heard in Parliament.
Taking up the role yesterday on Armistice Day, he said: “On a day when we remember all those who have served and sacrificed so much, it is important that we recognise our responsibilities to veterans and all those still serving in uniform.
“I’m incredibly proud to take on this responsibility, especially given North Devon’s proud military heritage and strong military community here with RMB Chivenor; a base I know closely from my own time stationed there when it was RAF Chivenor back in the 1980s.
“Knowing many local veterans and service families personally, I understand the many sacrifices made by those who serve and the challenges that often continue long after they leave the military.
“We owe an enormous debt to those who serve our country. Yet too many veterans and their families still struggle to access the support and recognition they deserve. I want to change that.
“War continues in Europe and the Middle East, cyber threats are growing, and the international order faces mounting challenges. Britain’s Armed Forces have rarely been more important, and we must ensure they have the support and resources they need.”