Derbyshire County Council issues statement about the county’s Armed Forces personnel

The Leader of Derbyshire County Council has issued a statement on behalf of the authority in direct response to recent comments by Donald Trump regarding the extent of involvement of UK and NATO troops’ in international conflict.

The US president was widely criticised, including by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, after he made false claims that non-American NATO troops “stayed a little back” from the front line during the war in Afghanistan.

Speaking for Derbyshire County Council and acknowledging the contributions of local people and those from further afield, Councillor Alan Graves said: “Derbyshire County Council stands in support of our British armed forces. We recognise the contribution of our armed services personnel serving across the globe today. We remember the sacrifices made by our veterans who served their country, and we honour all who lost their lives in the defence of our nation and allies.

“We’re proud to be a signatory to the Armed Forces Covenant – a promise by the nation to make sure that those who serve or who have served in the armed forces, and their families, are treated fairly.

“We support employees who are members of the reserve forces. And we work with other local authorities, charities and service providers through the Derbyshire Armed Forces Covenant Partnership to develop the provision and promotion of local services for our armed forces community.

“Lest we forget.”