GB News star Martin Daubney was moved to tears by an army veteran’s heartbreaking story about finding a place to live after his service.
Jamie Micklefield, a Royal Artillery veteran, joined Martin to discuss Sir Keir Stamer’s pledge to deliver housing for all veterans.
Many wind up on the streets after serving their country, an issue branded an “injustice hiding in plain sight” by the prime minister at Labour’s annual party conference.
Micklefield emotionally opened up on GB News about his struggles and finding the process “overwhelming”.
Jamie Micklefield joined Martin Daubney on GB News
GB NEWS
“When you leave, you’re left to do all of this yourself”, he said.
“Housing is a big shock. When you’re used to being fed and watered then you come out to council tax and rent, it’s very tough.
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Keir Starmer has promised housing for veterans
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“I found it really difficult to transition. Especially when you’re wondering what’s happening next.”
Sir Keir made the promise at the Labour conference, but when asked about it by GB News’s Political Editor Christopher Hope, the PM was coy on whether veterans will be ahead of asylum seekers in the queue for housing.
The Royal Artillery veteran told Martin the development was “not nice to hear” given the sacrifices made by those serving their country.
“It’s terrible. These guys need to live. If they’re not getting the money, they can’t”, he said.
Jamie Micklefield joined Martin Daubney on GB News
GB NEWS
“I don’t know what to say without swearing. It’s bad. We need to look after our veterans a lot better.”
Asked by Martin how he is feeling in himself, the man who has given so much to the country began to well up during what was an emotionally charged discussion.
“I’m alright. I do suffer PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), I’m going through a bit of a rocky road at the moment. I’m getting treatment so we will push on with that.
“I don’t want to get emotional. I’m sorry.”
The upsetting moment was too much for Martin, who then moved to wipe away a tear.
Sir Keir in his speech vowed not to “stand by” and continue to allow army veterans to sleep on the streets.
“In every town and city in this country. People who were prepared to make the ultimate sacrifice for our nation, who put their lives on the line to protect us all, but who will not have a safe place to sleep tonight,” he said.
“We cannot stand by and let this happen anymore.”
He added: “We will repay those who served us and house all veterans in housing need. Homes will be there for heroes.”