TONY Blair has backed Theresa May in the mounting criticism of investigations into British troops facing allegations of serious misconduct in Iraq or Afghanistan.
The former prime minister said he was “very sorry” that soldiers were being put through such an “ordeal”, and said the process looking into claims should never have been set up.
It comes after Prime Minister May met defence chiefs to discuss looming legal claims, after she had described many of them as “vexatious”.
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Mr Blair’s comments, in an interview with the Sunday Telegraph, come after Defence Secretary Sir Michael Fallon pledged legal support for soldiers affected.
The Iraq Historic Allegations Team (Ihat), which investigates claims of murder and abuse by British soldiers in Iraq, has come under fire for its handling of allegations.
Concerns have been raised about false accusations being made and the length of time taken to address claims.
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Mr Blair told the newspaper: “I do not think this process should ever have been put in place. I am very sorry that our soldiers and their families have been put through this ordeal.”
He added: “Our armed forces gave extraordinary service in both Iraq and Afghanistan.”
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