Veterans Minister Sparks Fury Saying Some Troops ‘Choose’ Food Banks
Johnny Mercer has set off a storm after claiming some armed forces members opt to use food banks. The Veterans Minister made the controversial remarks while defending military pay in a Sky News interview.
Mercer Blames Food Bank Use on ‘Personal Choice’
Mercer insisted that turning to food banks boils down to personal budgeting decisions. “These are personal decisions around how people are budgeting every month. I don’t want to see anyone using food banks, of course, I don’t. But we’re in an extremely difficult time around the cost of living,” he said.
Backlash from Critics: ‘Poverty Isn’t a Choice’
When pressed that people don’t choose food banks, Mercer replied, “Well, in my experience that is not correct. I think there are some dire cases that we need to do more to wrap our arms around and make sure that there is a safety net for people. I don’t think food bank use is an accurate portrayal of where levels of poverty, relative or absolute poverty, are in this country.”
His comments sparked outrage. Critics slammed the minister for downplaying the harsh realities of poverty. Food banks are usually a last resort, often reached through referrals from doctors, social workers, or Citizens Advice.
Mercer Holds Firm Amid Backlash
Despite the uproar, Mercer stood his ground. He claimed military life still offers a solid wage and good quality of life. Mercer also vowed to keep fighting for better pay for service personnel — but within tight budget limits.
Helpline for Homeless Veterans Launched
Alongside the controversy, Mercer unveiled a new helpline for homeless veterans as part of an £8.55 million government programme to wipe out rough sleeping among ex-servicemen and women. The helpline links vets with housing providers, charities, and local councils for urgent support.
“There is no need for a veteran to be sleeping rough, and I don’t want to see anyone sleeping rough by the end of this year,” Mercer said.
But many remain unconvinced, arguing Mercer’s remarks gloss over the grim financial struggles faced by countless Brits relying on charity to survive.
