In 2006, I received a call from Craig Prescott seeking help to understand the injustices faced by his late father, Roy, who had been involved in nuclear weapons testing but was denied a war pension by the Ministry of Defence. Despite Craig’s persistent efforts, justice eluded his family until he successfully secured a widow’s pension for his mother. The issue highlighted the disparity between how British and American troops were treated in similar situations, with the former often denied compensation.
Having previously worked as a defense reporter, I was familiar with the workings of the MoD and the risks associated with nuclear testing. Craig’s determination to seek redress for his father’s ordeal was both admirable and inspiring. The Mirror had been advocating for veterans since 1984, when concerns were raised about health issues among former soldiers exposed to nuclear tests.
Roy was one of many Royal Engineers involved in Cold War weapon trials, alongside thousands of others who reported health problems and birth defects among their offspring. Despite mounting evidence linking their conditions to the tests, legal battles with the MoD prolonged the veterans’ quest for recognition and compensation.
The veterans’ campaign gained momentum over the years, leading to revelations of government cover-ups and ultimately resulting in the introduction of a commemorative medal to honor their service. While the gesture was appreciated, the veterans felt let down by the lack of official recognition and the casual delivery of the medals, which symbolized a long-overdue acknowledgment of their sacrifices.
Subsequent investigations uncovered classified documents detailing the extent of the human experimentation conducted during the nuclear tests, sparking a scandal known as the Nuked Blood Scandal. This revelation triggered a series of inquiries and legal actions aimed at uncovering the truth and holding accountable those responsible for the veterans’ suffering.
As the campaign for justice continues to unfold, I bid farewell to my role at the Mirror and express gratitude to all those who have supported this cause over the years. The fight for truth and accountability remains ongoing, fueled by the determination of the veteran community and the pursuit of justice for those who have suffered in silence for too long.