Keir Starmer has committed to meeting with victims of the radiation experiments in the UK, 435 days after their initial request. The promise was made in response to a BBC reporter questioning Starmer about his pledge to support nuclear veterans, stating, “your campaign is our campaign.”
Acknowledging the injustice suffered by the victims, Starmer expressed willingness to meet with them by the end of the year. Campaigners sought a resolution to the Nuked Blood Scandal, which came to light after evidence of human radiation experiments on troops was uncovered by the Mirror.
During the Cold War, blood and urine samples were collected from individuals during weapons tests, and the results were concealed from medical records. Government officials and lawyers denied the existence of the program for years, leading to a current investigation by Thames Valley Police into allegations of misconduct in public office.
The Mirror informed Starmer about the scandal in September 2023, prompting the request for a meeting by campaign group LABRATS. Despite initial lack of response, Starmer has now expressed intent to follow up on the meeting request.
One veteran affected by the experiments, John Morris, who suffered health issues attributed to the tests, expressed hope that the PM will listen to their concerns. LABRATS founder, Alan Owen, proposed a one-year special tribunal as a solution, emphasizing the urgency due to the advanced age of the veterans.
The PM, unaware of the veterans’ request for a meeting, has now pledged to address the issue. The veterans remain hopeful that their messages will reach the PM, emphasizing their desire for a dialogue rather than costly legal battles.