Keir Starmer has praised the “selfless dedication” of those who have served in the military before the anniversary of VE Day as the government unveiled a new £50m support system for veterans.
In an open letter to mark 80 years since the end of the second world war in Europe, the prime minister said the sacrifice made by members of the armed forces was a debt that could “never fully be repaid”.
He said the country would show how thankful it was during events to commemorate VE Day, which signalled the end of fighting on 8 May 1945.
“It was also a victory for good against the assembled forces of hatred, tyranny and evil,” Starmer wrote. “VE Day is a chance to acknowledge, again, that our debt to those who achieved it can never fully be repaid.”
A procession of 1,300 military personnel and civilians through London will take place on Monday, accompanied by Nato, Ukraine and Commonwealth armed forces representatives, and a flypast by the Red Arrows and Voyager transport aircraft.
There will also be a two-minute silence at noon on Thursday followed by a service in Westminster Abbey attended by King Charles.
Street parties will be held in towns and cities across the UK as part of the special events – including community tea parties, 1940s dress-up events, and gatherings onboard second world war warships.
In addition, a display of almost 30,000 ceramic poppies will go on show at the Tower of London.
On Monday, the government will announce a £50m pot of funding for services to support veterans with housing, employment, health and welfare.
The new Valour service is to help fulfil Labour’s manifesto pledge to implement the armed forces covenant and fund initiatives for veterans, some of whom face struggles to integrate back into civilian life after serving in the military.
John Healey, the defence secretary, said: “The nation owes a duty to those who’ve served to defend our country, and it is only right that the government steps up our support to them.
“The armed forces set most people up for success in life but when veterans need help, then support is too often a postcode patchwork. Our plan to develop a UK-wide veterans support service will work with enterprising health, employment and housing charities and it is backed by the one of the largest ever government funding commitments to veterans.”
Starmer said his thoughts would turn both to those who served in the second world war and those who carried “the torch of their legacy” today.
“Alongside our history and our values, service is the other great force that binds a nation together,” he said. “So this week, I want you to know: the whole nation is inspired by the selfless dedication of your example.”
