I often seek to raise the concerns of constituents in Parliament. Having heard from residents on a plethora of issues since my election in 2019, I know there is an ever-evolving range of issues that the people of Ruislip, Northwood and Pinner face, and I am always prepared to support them. Recently, I heard from a constituent who has been concerned about the problem veterans face in accessing further education once their service in the armed forces has finished.
In this particular case, my constituent chose to settle overseas, at the site of his last posting. Despite this, they continue to pay tax in the UK and own property locally in the constituency. As their permanent address is overseas, they are being charged overseas fees for seeking further education here in the UK. I am sympathetic with their concerns and know that they will not be alone among veterans seeking to re-educate themselves in preparation for life outside the services.
I raised this issue in Parliament this afternoon on behalf of the constituent and to ensure that Ministers at the Ministry of Defence are aware of the situation faced by veterans looking to re-skill. While acknowledging that this is primarily an issue for the Department for Education, the Minister responding stressed his own sympathy for my constituents and all veterans in this situation. The Minister has also offered a future meeting alongside the Minister for Veteran’s Affairs to discuss the matter in detail.
