Eastbourne MP Unites Over One Hundred MPs Across 11 Parties to Demand Support for Injured Veterans

In a letter to the Chancellor of the Exchequer today (26 October), Eastbourne MP Josh Babarinde is calling on the Government to end what he describes as an “unfair” and “unjust” system that penalises injured veterans by treating their military compensation as income when calculating Pension Credit entitlement.

This contrasts with civilian compensation awards, which are generally disregarded when calculating entitlement to means-tested benefits.

Mr Babarinde’s letter has secured more than 103 signatures from MPs across 11 political parties, and support continues to grow across Westminster.

The letter marks the latest step in Mr Babarinde’s campaign for ‘Pauline’s Law’, named in honour of the late Pauline Cole, an Eastbourne resident and former Staff Sergeant who sustained injuries while serving her country in Aden.

After receiving military compensation for her injuries, Pauline saw her Pension Credit fall from £77 a week to just £11 a week.

The Eastbourne MP has spoken out against this injustice eight times in Parliament, including raising the issue directly with the Prime Minister and more recently in an adjournment debate.

Sadly, Pauline passed away late last year. However, Mr Babarinde is continuing her fight for change, determined to ensure that other veterans do not face the same financial penalty for injuries sustained in service.

In a statement, Mr Babarinde said:

“I want the Government to use the upcoming Budget to right this wrong and ensure that our veterans are never financially penalised for serving our country.

“I am hugely grateful to all the MPs from across 11 political parties who have backed this campaign. Their support demonstrates the strength of feeling across Parliament that this injustice must end.

“I am determined to continue Pauline’s fight for justice and deliver the change she deserved, so that no other veteran has to face the same unfair treatment.”