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Al Carns

@AlistairCarns • 18,838 subscribers

Labour Member of Parliament for Birmingham Selly Oak and Minister of State for the Armed Forces

Shorts

I’ve spent the last few days in four countries across the Middle East visiting British Forces on live operations. Our Armed Forces personnel there are working with our allies and partners on the rapidly evolving situation. That’s why I wasn’t in Westminster for yesterday’s vote on the Northern Ireland Legacy Bill. I understand why people feel strongly about this. But the crisis in the Middle East is already affecting us all and it’s ongoing. I served for 24 years. I know what it means to be asked to put your life on the line for this country, and I know what we owe the people who do. For those who served in Northern Ireland, and for their families, this is not an abstract issue. It is about truth, justice, and how we treat those who put themselves on the line for our country. My focus is clear: to make sure the process does not become the punishment, to recognise the difference in law and in fact between those who served the state under orders and those who set out to harm it, and to support veterans and their families in getting as close as possible to truth, reconciliation and justice. I will continue working with colleagues across Government, in private as much as in public, to make sure we get this right. To everyone who served in Northern Ireland, and to the wider veteran community: that commitment does not change. To those that seek to divide the veteran community, question commitment, motivations, honour or question intent, that is your right to do so. And, to those that continue to engage and seek change for justice, let’s keep doing so. We will get there.

I’ve spent the last few days in four countries across the Middle East visiting British Forces on live operations. Our Armed Forces personnel there are working with our allies and partners on the rapidly evolving situation. That’s why I wasn’t in Westminster for yesterday’s vote on the Northern Ireland Legacy Bill. I understand why people feel strongly about this. But the crisis in the Middle East is already affecting us all and it’s ongoing. I served for 24 years. I know what it means to be asked to put your life on the line for this country, and I know what we owe the people who do. For those who served in Northern Ireland, and for their families, this is not an abstract issue. It is about truth, justice, and how we treat those who put themselves on the line for our country. My focus is clear: to make sure the process does not become the punishment, to recognise the difference in law and in fact between those who served the state under orders and those who set out to harm it, and to support veterans and their families in getting as close as possible to truth, reconciliation and justice. I will continue working with colleagues across Government, in private as much as in public, to make sure we get this right. To everyone who served in Northern Ireland, and to the wider veteran community: that commitment does not change. To those that seek to divide the veteran community, question commitment, motivations, honour or question intent, that is your right to do so. And, to those that continue to engage and seek change for justice, let’s keep doing so. We will get there.

88,458 görüntüleme

A protest vote can feel powerful - but it doesn’t always have the impact people expect. In many elections, votes don’t just reflect preference, they determine results. Sometimes a protest vote can unintentionally split support and help deliver an outcome further away from what was intended. That’s why it’s worth thinking not just about what you’re voting against, but what your vote might actually help deliver on the day.

A protest vote can feel powerful - but it doesn’t always have the impact people expect. In many elections, votes don’t just reflect preference, they determine results. Sometimes a protest vote can unintentionally split support and help deliver an outcome further away from what was intended. That’s why it’s worth thinking not just about what you’re voting against, but what your vote might actually help deliver on the day.

36,431 görüntüleme

I am currently on Reservist training. Here in Norway with the Royal Marine Surveillance and Reconnaissance Squadron. Dusting off some old skills and drills in the Arctic Circle. It’s -18C but still workable for insertion skills. Norway is not just a strategic ally it’s a geopolitical partnership. With Russian submarine and naval activity in the North Atlantic increasing by over 30% in the past two years we need to increasingly work together. Lunar House is our bilateral agreement with the Norwegians and it’s going from strength to strength. This is the biggest deployment of Marines to the high north in some time.

I am currently on Reservist training. Here in Norway with the Royal Marine Surveillance and Reconnaissance Squadron. Dusting off some old skills and drills in the Arctic Circle. It’s -18C but still workable for insertion skills. Norway is not just a strategic ally it’s a geopolitical partnership. With Russian submarine and naval activity in the North Atlantic increasing by over 30% in the past two years we need to increasingly work together. Lunar House is our bilateral agreement with the Norwegians and it’s going from strength to strength. This is the biggest deployment of Marines to the high north in some time.

91,373 görüntüleme

Reservist training complete✅ Defence engagement complete✅ Relationship as strong as ever✅ Go Norway👍 Go UK👍 Stronger together 🫡 Thank you Norway and all the British Embassy Oslo 🇬🇧🇳🇴 Norway in the UK staff for organising the political part of the visit. It often goes overlooked but lots of people worked very hard to make everything come together…well done and stay legendary.

Reservist training complete✅ Defence engagement complete✅ Relationship as strong as ever✅ Go Norway👍 Go UK👍 Stronger together 🫡 Thank you Norway and all the British Embassy Oslo 🇬🇧🇳🇴 Norway in the UK staff for organising the political part of the visit. It often goes overlooked but lots of people worked very hard to make everything come together…well done and stay legendary.

36,790 görüntüleme

I have never been intimidated in my life and our great nation will not be intimated by this bully. Yesterday’s violation of Poland’s airspace by Russian drones will only strengthen our resolve, strengthen our alliance, and strength our defence of our western values and friendships.

I have never been intimidated in my life and our great nation will not be intimated by this bully. Yesterday’s violation of Poland’s airspace by Russian drones will only strengthen our resolve, strengthen our alliance, and strength our defence of our western values and friendships.

14,915 görüntüleme

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The UK served on the frontline in Afghanistan and often way beyond it!

The UK served on the frontline in Afghanistan and often way beyond it!

1,502,833 görüntüleme • 4 ay önce

When Reform UK accidentally tells the truth 👀

When Reform UK accidentally tells the truth 👀

38,488 görüntüleme • 11 gün önce

Think your vote doesn’t have consequences? Think again. The Green Party are calling for big changes - from drug decriminalisation to leaving NATO and a very different economic approach. These aren’t small shifts. They would reshape the country. So before you vote, ask yourself: is that a risk worth taking?

Think your vote doesn’t have consequences? Think again. The Green Party are calling for big changes - from drug decriminalisation to leaving NATO and a very different economic approach. These aren’t small shifts. They would reshape the country. So before you vote, ask yourself: is that a risk worth taking?

116,358 görüntüleme • 1 ay önce

What would our high streets look like without independent businesses? Great to visit Chancers Café in Stirchley and hear about the vital role small businesses play in our communities. Independent businesses create jobs, bring people together and help our high streets thrive. Supporting local matters.

What would our high streets look like without independent businesses? Great to visit Chancers Café in Stirchley and hear about the vital role small businesses play in our communities. Independent businesses create jobs, bring people together and help our high streets thrive. Supporting local matters.

57,283 görüntüleme • 22 gün önce

Armed Forces Bill moving through Parliament…it’s important…watch below⬇️⬇️⬇️🫡🫡

Armed Forces Bill moving through Parliament…it’s important…watch below⬇️⬇️⬇️🫡🫡

17,551 görüntüleme • 7 gün önce

Seems I have annoyed a few people about making videos in Selly Oak. It’s the second time the same story has been commissioned 🙄 To be honest, I think highlighting brilliant local charities, businesses, volunteers, public services and community groups is a pretty important part of the job. 🤔 Most of the videos are about people doing good work quietly without much recognition. They deserve support and visibility. 🫡 Politics can become far too focused on Westminster noise. I’d rather spend my time talking about the people trying to make our communities better. So enjoy this one…..⬇️⬇️ 🤐 The facts—-24 videos were produced for £4,000 over a period of 22 months…go Selly Oak! 👍🫡

Seems I have annoyed a few people about making videos in Selly Oak. It’s the second time the same story has been commissioned 🙄 To be honest, I think highlighting brilliant local charities, businesses, volunteers, public services and community groups is a pretty important part of the job. 🤔 Most of the videos are about people doing good work quietly without much recognition. They deserve support and visibility. 🫡 Politics can become far too focused on Westminster noise. I’d rather spend my time talking about the people trying to make our communities better. So enjoy this one…..⬇️⬇️ 🤐 The facts—-24 videos were produced for £4,000 over a period of 22 months…go Selly Oak! 👍🫡

38,564 görüntüleme • 21 gün önce

ON THE FRONTLINE (viewer discretion advised) Here’s a small snapshot of what it’s like to be on the frontline in Afghanistan. (*that’s me on the roof directing fire and calling in the apache gunships).2006/7

ON THE FRONTLINE (viewer discretion advised) Here’s a small snapshot of what it’s like to be on the frontline in Afghanistan. (*that’s me on the roof directing fire and calling in the apache gunships).2006/7

97,497 görüntüleme • 4 ay önce

Security matters more than ever. I spent time with Pam Cox MP discussing what Labour has done for the armed forces and defence, including strengthening military readiness. But just as important is our long term investment in economic security to help drive down energy prices and the cost of the weekly shop. Together we’ll build a stronger and more resilient Britain.

Security matters more than ever. I spent time with Pam Cox MP discussing what Labour has done for the armed forces and defence, including strengthening military readiness. But just as important is our long term investment in economic security to help drive down energy prices and the cost of the weekly shop. Together we’ll build a stronger and more resilient Britain.

25,448 görüntüleme • 1 ay önce

A year ago, we climbed Everest in under seven days. Together, we raised hundreds of thousands for charity. But what stayed with me wasn’t reaching the summit. It was the people around me. Every step depended on teamwork, trust and determination. I see that same spirit every time I visit communities across the country. Volunteers, charity workers, NHS staff and people in local services going the extra mile, not for recognition, but because others depend on them. That’s how real progress happens. Not through one person acting alone, but through people pulling together. Thank you to everyone who donated and helped make it possible.

A year ago, we climbed Everest in under seven days. Together, we raised hundreds of thousands for charity. But what stayed with me wasn’t reaching the summit. It was the people around me. Every step depended on teamwork, trust and determination. I see that same spirit every time I visit communities across the country. Volunteers, charity workers, NHS staff and people in local services going the extra mile, not for recognition, but because others depend on them. That’s how real progress happens. Not through one person acting alone, but through people pulling together. Thank you to everyone who donated and helped make it possible.

17,111 görüntüleme • 23 gün önce

The Soldier F trial has concluded. I would like to thank the legal team, the Army Operation Legacy Branch and the whole team for their stalwart and tireless support throughout. 🫡

The Soldier F trial has concluded. I would like to thank the legal team, the Army Operation Legacy Branch and the whole team for their stalwart and tireless support throughout. 🫡

111,541 görüntüleme • 7 ay önce

This seems to have annoyed people…so I will post it again….to the Fire and Rescue Services that go above and beyond to keep our communities safe…you are our every day heroes. I salute you..🫡🫡🫡

This seems to have annoyed people…so I will post it again….to the Fire and Rescue Services that go above and beyond to keep our communities safe…you are our every day heroes. I salute you..🫡🫡🫡

43,067 görüntüleme • 2 ay önce

Long range mobility is essential to be able to move fast, strike and recover in the freezing Arctic . The teams use Over Snow Reconnaissance Vehicles…aka a snow mobile. They require skilled operators to live and fight off these vehicles for weeks in -30C. It’s clear to me though that these Commandos have mastered the art. 🤔 Resembles a highly effective Arctic biker gang. 🫡🫡🥶🥶

Long range mobility is essential to be able to move fast, strike and recover in the freezing Arctic . The teams use Over Snow Reconnaissance Vehicles…aka a snow mobile. They require skilled operators to live and fight off these vehicles for weeks in -30C. It’s clear to me though that these Commandos have mastered the art. 🤔 Resembles a highly effective Arctic biker gang. 🫡🫡🥶🥶

53,142 görüntüleme • 4 ay önce

Reserve Changes….so much misinformation—-so here is what’s really happening…🫡🫡

Reserve Changes….so much misinformation—-so here is what’s really happening…🫡🫡

54,622 görüntüleme • 4 ay önce

Protecting British citizens — at home and overseas, including in the Middle East — will always come first. We will take whatever steps are necessary to safeguard our people and defend our national interests, and we stand with our allies in their lawful right to self-defence. Our focus is clear: protect life, reduce tensions, and maintain regional stability. Interview footage courtesy of Channel 4 News

Protecting British citizens — at home and overseas, including in the Middle East — will always come first. We will take whatever steps are necessary to safeguard our people and defend our national interests, and we stand with our allies in their lawful right to self-defence. Our focus is clear: protect life, reduce tensions, and maintain regional stability. Interview footage courtesy of Channel 4 News

31,856 görüntüleme • 3 ay önce

The Royal Marines were in Parliament last week talking about Arctic and Cold Weather Warfare (🥶🥶) capabilities and the importance of alliances to protect the High North. Given recent global developments this has never been more important. I’ll be in Norway next week, not as a Minister but as a Royal Marines Reservist…. donning a green suit once more. See below this is what our Commando Force is all about…more to come. 👇

The Royal Marines were in Parliament last week talking about Arctic and Cold Weather Warfare (🥶🥶) capabilities and the importance of alliances to protect the High North. Given recent global developments this has never been more important. I’ll be in Norway next week, not as a Minister but as a Royal Marines Reservist…. donning a green suit once more. See below this is what our Commando Force is all about…more to come. 👇

31,690 görüntüleme • 4 ay önce

In Portsmouth seeing first-hand how the Royal Navy is leading NATO in maritime autonomy. This is the UK at the cutting edge, and proof that defence is an engine for growth.

In Portsmouth seeing first-hand how the Royal Navy is leading NATO in maritime autonomy. This is the UK at the cutting edge, and proof that defence is an engine for growth.

30,649 görüntüleme • 4 ay önce

Remember! Freedom is not free!

Remember! Freedom is not free!

37,302 görüntüleme • 7 ay önce

Who do you call when you need to land in a snowdrift…

Who do you call when you need to land in a snowdrift…

24,212 görüntüleme • 4 ay önce

The Silent Service I recently visited HM Naval Base Clyde to meet the sailors, submariners, engineers and civilian staff who keep our continuous at sea deterrent running. It was great to be back…I served here as a young Marine in 2000 (yes, I am that old). The work ongoing here in Faslane is more impressive than you can imagine. Whilst so much is going on in the world, it’s worth remembering that every hour of every day, of every year, the silent service is deep below the ocean’s waves keeping us safe ⬇️

The Silent Service I recently visited HM Naval Base Clyde to meet the sailors, submariners, engineers and civilian staff who keep our continuous at sea deterrent running. It was great to be back…I served here as a young Marine in 2000 (yes, I am that old). The work ongoing here in Faslane is more impressive than you can imagine. Whilst so much is going on in the world, it’s worth remembering that every hour of every day, of every year, the silent service is deep below the ocean’s waves keeping us safe ⬇️

17,350 görüntüleme • 2 ay önce

Good morning world. Have a great weekend everyone. It’s a bit less blustery today…indeed the sun is shining.

Good morning world. Have a great weekend everyone. It’s a bit less blustery today…indeed the sun is shining.

23,016 görüntüleme • 4 ay önce