We veterans can't understand why this awful march is going ahead -Sqn Ldr Peter Richardson

As we head into the most solemn weekend in our calendar, our veterans are told not to wear their medals and regimental insignia for fear of retribution from pro-Hamas protestors.

Every veteran served with pride to protect our freedom, to protect free speech and the right to protest within the law, as did those who gave the ultimate sacrifice. Our Government and the Metropolitan Chief Constable has capitulated to the left-wing mob.

Whilst I agree that pro-Palestinian protestors have the right to march, marching over the most solemn weekend in the UK’s calendar is insensitive and crass to say the least.

As veterans, we are proud of our service, showing our respect to the fallen at hundreds of Cenotaphs around the country this has zero to do with the Palestinian ceasefire protest.

As for the Israel/Palestinian conflict: Fact, Hamas has stated they want the total destruction of the state of Israel, Fact, Hamas has broken the last four ceasefires. Fact, Hamas hides behind the Palestinian women and children and in bunkers under hospitals. Fact, Hamas committed unspeakable terrorist acts against men, women and children on the October 7. Fact, Hamas and other Islamic terrorist groups are holding over 200 hostages.

A ceasefire is there for the taking, all that is required is the release of all hostages. Once done, brokering of a lasting peace can be negotiated. It is interesting to note that, Jordan and Egypt refuse to take any Palestinian refugees, one has to ask why? These Arabic countries are not the only ones, in fact not one Arabic or Islamic country has offered sanctuary.

Where are the leaders of the Islamic faith in this country? Why are they not asking for restraint during this difficult time? Action from them seems sadly missing.

Postscript: people of Britain, whatever your faith or political leaning, can we all just for one weekend put all prejudices aside and commemorate those brave men and women of all faiths who gave their lives so we can live free.

When you go home, tell them of us and say, “for your tomorrow, we gave our today”.

Sqn Ldr Peter Richardson CFS(H) R’td is United Kingdom Independence Party Defence and Veterans Spokesman.