WWI soldiers to be pardoned

The Armed Forces Act 2006, which received Royal Assent today, will pardon over 300 soldiers executed for disciplinary breaches during WWI and unify disciplinary measures across the armed services.

Those to be pardoned under the new legislation will include Private Harry Farr, who was executed for refusing to return to the trenches.

While the pardon is intended to remove the dishonour of an execution, it does not quash the convictions or sentences and does not apply to those convicted of murder. It recognises that execution was not a fate that the servicemen deserved.

Des Browne, the Secretary of State for Defence, said: "This is not about rewriting history. I do not want to second guess decisions made by the commanders at the time. I believe it is better to acknowledge that injustices were clearly done in some cases - even if we cannot say which - and to acknowledge that all these men were victims of war.

"I hope that pardoning these men will finally remove the stigma with which their families have lived with for years."

However, the primary purpose of the Act is to harmonise and streamline the previously differing discipline systems of the Royal Navy, Army and Royal Air Force.

Derek Twigg, the Under Secretary of State, said: "The Act will ensure that our Armed Forces have a modern military justice system. Having one set of clear laws and procedures removes any doubt as to which system service personnel are subject to."

"One of the key measures of the Act will be to introduce a Complaints Commissioner - who will hear complaints involving bullying and unacceptable behaviour. This will improve the transparency of the military complaints process and raise confidence in our procedures."

Among the measures introduce will be the creation of a single independent Service Prosecuting Authority.

A Commissioner will be appointed to hear complaints and allegations from service personnel and third parties and the various Boards of Inquiry with one single form of statutory Service Inquiry.

The Bill, which will be placed before Parliament, has yet to be approved by MPs.

(SP/KMcA)