Johnny Mercer returns as veterans’ minister in Sunak reshuffle
Mr Mercer, who was a vocal critic of the impact Liz Truss’s mini-budget had on the public, was sacked as veterans’ minister by Liz Truss.
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Johnny Mercer is returning to Government, after being appointed to his former role of veterans’ minister by Rishi Sunak.
Mr Mercer, who was in recent weeks was a vocal critic Liz Truss’s mini-budget, was sacked as veterans’ minister when the now ex-PM took over in September.
He supported Rishi Sunak in the race to replace Ms Truss and recently spoke about being sacked as a “gut punch”.
On Tuesday evening, Mr Mercer tweeted: “My determination to make this the best country in the world to be an Armed Forces Veteran remains unbowed.
“Delighted to return to Cabinet this evening, and looking forward to the mission supporting Rishi Sunak.”
While his return was welcomed by his friends and supporters, the re-appointment comes as the Government’s controversial legacy bill continues to move through Parliament.
The Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Bill, which proposes an effective amnesty for Troubles crimes for people who co-operate with an information body, has sparked widespread opposition in the region.
There is almost universal opposition to the proposed legislation which would see an effective amnesty offered for people accused of Troubles offences as long as they co-operate with a new truth recovery body, with the issue among several that has prompted repeated warnings from the Irish Government.
It is also set to halt future civil cases and inquests linked to killings during the conflict.
The Bill has been through the House of Commons and is set for consideration by the House of Lords.