Armed Forces Covenant (Duty of Public Authorities) Bill

A Bill to require public authorities to deliver services in accordance with the armed forces covenant; and for connected purposes.

Originating House

House of Commons

Sponsor

Gavin RobinsonDemocratic Unionist Party

Last Updated

21 March 2019

In Plain English

AI-generated

This bill would require public authorities to deliver their services in line with the Armed Forces Covenant. It is designed to ensure fair treatment and better support for serving personnel, veterans and their families when they use public services. The duties would apply to a broad range of public bodies and related activities.

Key Points

Imposes a duty on public authorities to act in accordance with the Armed Forces Covenant when delivering services.
Requires public bodies to consider the Covenant when planning and delivering services to serving personnel, veterans and their families.
Aims to improve access to public services for armed forces communities and reduce disadvantages they may face.
Covers connected purposes, potentially extending to areas such as housing, healthcare and education as they relate to service delivery.
Sponsor: Gavin Robinson (Democratic Unionist Party); current stage: 2nd reading in the House of Commons.

Progress

The bill is at the 2nd reading stage in the Commons. If it moves forward, it would proceed to detailed scrutiny in committee, then further readings, before possible passage to the Lords.

Who is affected?

Serving armed forces personnelVeterans and their familiesPublic authorities and the staff who deliver public services (e.g., local authorities, health bodies, government departments, emergency services)People who rely on public services who may be affected by Covenant-related considerations

Generated 21 February 2026

Updates & Documents

News (1)

News - Armed Forces Covenant (Duty of Public Authorities)

1 Jan 1970

The Bill failed to complete its passage through Parliament before the end of the session. This means the Bill will make no further progress.

Parliamentary Votes (0)

No recorded votes for this bill yet.

Armed Forces Covenant (Duty of Public Authorities) Bill | TrackPolitics