Armed Forces (Service Complaints and Financial Assistance) Bill

It was announced in the Queen’s Speech on 4 June 2014 that legislation would be introduced to improve the complaints system in the Armed Forces through the creation of an Ombudsman. The Armed Forces (Service Complaints and Financial Assistance) Bill to give effect to these changes was introduced in the House of Lords on 5 June and had its second reading on 23 June. The Defence Committee is today announcing an inquiry into the provisions of the Bill relating to the Service Complaints system and the creation of a Service Complaints Ombudsman. The Committee is particularly interested in:

• The method of appointment of the proposed Service Complaints Ombudsman. 
• The proposed powers of the Service Complaints Ombudsman and whether these are adequate.
• The effectiveness of the proposed changes to the Service Complaints system.
• What additional measures should be included in the Bill?

Please note that the Committee is unable to discuss, deal with or investigate individual cases.

Written submissions

The Committee would welcome written evidence to this inquiry. This should be sent to the Clerk of the Defence Committee by Thursday 10 July 2014.

Where to submit your written evidence

Written submissions for this inquiry should be submitted via the Armed Forces (Service Complaints and Financial Assistance) Bill: inquiry page on the Defence Committee website.