But it is also clear that British troops have committed brutal crimes, that these have often taken years to emerge, and that attempts to hold individuals responsible have been immensely protracted and usually fruitless. The Ministry of Defence has paid compensation in a third of the civil cases brought against it by alleged victims. In addition, the country’s most senior military judge has pointed out that it could become more likely for British personnel to be brought before the international criminal court. A government that really wanted to improve matters would overhaul and better fund investigations, which have failed both alleged victims and accused personnel through the lack of speed, transparency and thoroughness. This is a cynical bill, bad for personnel as well as civilians.

Source: The Guardian September 27, 2020 17:26 UTC