24th April 2026
Concerns are being raised across the country over the past legal work of Richard Hermer, with critics questioning how it relates to the treatment of British military veterans.
Before his appointment by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Lord Hermer worked as a barrister involved in cases connected to allegations against UK troops during the Iraq War. Many of these cases were brought through mechanisms such as the now-defunct Iraq Historic Allegations Team.
While some investigations identified wrongdoing, a significant number of claims were later withdrawn or dismissed, leading to strong criticism from veterans and their supporters. Campaigners argue that the process placed undue stress on service personnel, many of whom faced years of uncertainty over allegations that did not ultimately lead to prosecution.
Veterans’ groups have long maintained that the system allowed unsubstantiated claims to proceed too far, damaging morale and reputations. For them, the issue is not simply legal process, but the principle of standing by those who served.
“People who put their lives on the line for this country shouldn’t be left fighting legal battles years later over claims that don’t stand up,” said one local resident with family ties to the armed forces.
Supporters of Lord Hermer point out that barristers act on behalf of clients within the framework of the law and do not determine the validity of claims themselves. They argue that legal scrutiny—even when uncomfortable—is part of maintaining high standards and accountability.
However, critics remain unconvinced, saying the balance has tipped too far against those who served. The debate has reignited calls for stronger protections for veterans against what some describe as “lawfare” stemming from overseas conflicts.
In Romiley, the issue has struck a chord with many residents, reflecting a wider national sentiment that while accountability matters, so too does fairness to those who served on the front line.
As discussions continue, the question remains a difficult one: how to uphold the rule of law while ensuring that British veterans are not subjected to prolonged and ultimately unfounded legal challenges.
