Panorama Programme

You may be aware of the BBC Panorama programme which aired yesterday, and the media headlines relating to allegations of war crimes in Afghanistan. 

We recognise that many of you, including your families, will find the material upsetting and a cause of potential concern. The allegations of unlawful killings and cover-ups could not be more serious, and it is for this reason that Defence is doing all it can to support the Independent Inquiry relating to Afghanistan.  We urge anyone who may have relevant information to come forward and provide it.  Contact details for dedicated Defence teams who can assist can be found on GOV.UK.  Alternatively, you may wish to contact the Inquiry team who are completely independent of the MOD.

Your wellbeing is of the utmost importance to Defence and the Department will do all it can to support those impacted including through the provision of legal and pastoral support with full confidentiality.  A comprehensive list of the support available is provided via links on this page.  This is available to all serving personnel (military and civil servants), as well as Defence families and veterans.  You can opt in to wellbeing support at any stage and there is no limit to the number of wellbeing mechanisms that can be accessed. Acknowledging your feelings and seeking support where necessary may help you to navigate your experience and minimise the toll on you.

Legal support

Defence has set up a dedicated team of barristers and solicitors – the Military Witness Legal Team – to offer free, independent, and confidential legal advice to individuals whose evidence is requested by the Inquiry. Although this team is funded by the MOD, it is separate, and any discussions and advice are protected from disclosure to the MOD, the Inquiry, or any other person.

For further information, please contact:

Email: Guy.Richardson@governmentlegal.gov.uk or Raveen.Patel@governmentlegal.gov.uk