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

Written by Dan Wareing for BBC News in the region of Devon

Sir Keir Starmer has spoken out against a political candidate who accused his opponent of falsifying his military background.

The head of the Labour party called out Conservative Johnny Mercer for being "pathetic and needy" when he alleged that Fred Thomas, a retired Royal Marine running for Labour in the Plymouth Moor View area, did not participate in any combat missions despite what was stated in the Guardian in 2023.

Mr Mercer, a former Army officer and veterans' minister, suggested that Mr Thomas should take responsibility for his actions after claiming he was bragging about his military experience.

Mr. Thomas stated that he is not able to talk about most of his time in service.

Addressing journalists in London, Sir Keir described Mr. Thomas as an experienced individual with a commendable history of serving.

He claimed that the remarks indicated that the Conservatives prioritize their party over the country, which he believed is backwards.

I believe it is unfortunate that the veterans minister is criticizing another veteran with a commendable history of service," he stated.

In his response, Mr. Mercer admitted to being guilty of being a melancholy man who values traditional ideas and believes that veterans who brag about their combat experience in the media just to win elections should be responsible for their actions, especially if it is not true.

"This behavior is extremely hurtful and shows a lack of respect for those who have truly sacrificed for their country."

Mr. Thomas proudly shared that he had dedicated seven years of his life to serving his country, including working on missions abroad.

He mentioned that he still can't talk about many details of his service, a fact that Johnny Mercer, a former defense minister, understands well.

I am excited to spend each day leading up to 4 July spreading Keir Starmer's new vision for the Labour Party to the people of Plymouth Moor View.

At an event in Plymouth on Wednesday, Mr Mercer made the allegations for the first time.

He mentioned that he does not deny Mr Thomas's time in the Royal Marines or that he "actually completed one mission where he faced difficult situations. Instead, he wants to acknowledge and honor his service."

He mentioned that being in combat has a unique significance and comes with unique duties.

The Labour Party informed the BBC on Friday that Mr. Thomas's words were not accurately reported in the article published by the Guardian.

Mr. Thomas showed his valediction certificate, signed by a high-ranking officer from the Special Forces Support Group.

There are other contenders running for office in Plymouth Moor View, such as Shaun Hooper representing Reform UK, Sarah Martin from the Liberal Democrats, and Georgia Nelson from the Green Party.