Keir Starmer criticises Johnny Mercer for attack on candidate's service record

Sir Keir Starmer has spoken out against a political candidate who claimed that his opponent had been dishonest about his military service.

The leader of the Labour Party called Conservative Johnny Mercer "pathetic and anxious" for suggesting that Fred Thomas, a former Royal Marine running for Labour in Plymouth Moor View, never actually participated in combat missions as reported by the Guardian in 2023.

Mr Mercer, a retired Army officer and former veterans' minister, stated that Mr Thomas should be responsible for his actions after accusing him of bragging about his military service.

Mr Thomas stated that he could not talk about a lot of his work.

Addressing the press in London, Sir Keir stated that Mr. Thomas is an experienced individual with a distinguished history of serving his country.

He remarked that the remarks indicated that the Conservatives prioritized their party over the country, which he believed was not the correct order of priorities.

I believe it is unfortunate that the veterans minister is criticizing another veteran who has a distinguished history of serving their country.

In reply, Mr. Mercer admitted that he is indeed a sad man who has traditional views. He believes that politicians who use their military service to gain votes should be held responsible, especially if their claims are proven false.

It is extremely hurtful and disrespectful to those who bravely fight for our country.

Mr Thomas proudly mentioned that he had served his country for seven years, which included working overseas on military missions.

"I can't talk about my service in much detail, which Johnny Mercer, a former defense minister, understands well," he stated.

I am excited to make the most of each day leading up to 4 July to spread Keir Starmer's new vision for the Labour Party to the voters of Plymouth Moor View.

Mr. Mercer initially leveled the accusations during a public meeting in Plymouth on Wednesday.

He mentioned that he did not challenge Mr. Thomas's time in the Royal Marines or the fact that he had been on a difficult mission, and that he actually admires his service.

He mentioned that being in active duty comes with unique significance and duties that should not be taken lightly.

The Labour Party corrected the BBC on Friday regarding Mr. Thomas being misquoted in the Guardian article.

Mr. Thomas mentioned his valediction certificate, which was signed by an unidentified commanding officer from the Special Forces Support Group.

The remaining contenders in Plymouth Moor View include Shaun Hooper representing Reform UK, Sarah Martin representing the Liberal Democrats, and Georgia Nelson representing the Green Party.