Press Release 23 February 2010
David Hamilton calls for all MPs to visit the frontline
Midlothian MP David Hamilton has called on all MPs to gain first hand experience of military life through the Armed Forces Parliamentary Scheme.
David Hamilton has visited soldiers in a number of conflicts as part of the Armed Forces Parliamentary Scheme. The scheme helps MPs to visit theatres of conflict, allowing them to spend time with all ranks of the armed forces and learn more about military life and the conditions that our soldiers have to work in.
So far David has visited members of the armed forces in Afghanistan, Bahrain and in waters off the coast of Somali under the Armed Forces Parliamentary Scheme. He has also visited many bases and facilities across the UK during his service such as HMS Invincible and HMS President.
Speaking in Parliament David Hamilton said:
"Along with some colleagues, I was out in the Gulf in the summer recess, and I encourage my hon. Friend and Opposition spokespersons to do the following... after the next election, there will be hundreds of new MPs, and I ask that every Front-Bench spokesman writes to every new Member suggesting that they join the Armed Forces Parliamentary Scheme. It is important to do that, because the scheme is about not only front-line services but what the armed forces do for this country."
Unusually, especially this close to an election, David's call was backed by both the Government and Opposition frontbenches.
Speaking afterwards David said:
"The Armed Forces Parliamentary Scheme has given me a wonderful insight into the way that our brave servicemen and woman defend this country. I have learnt many things from my visits which I have then been able to bring back to Parliament and raise directly with Ministers. I believe that every MP should get involved with this scheme".
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