Stephen Metcalfe, Conservative Parliamentary Candidate for South Basildon & East Thurrock, yesterday marked Armed Forces Week in the constituency with an official flag raising ceremony at Thurrock Civic Offices.
Ahead of Armed Forces Day on 29 June, Stephen joined the Armed Forces community at Thurrock Civic Offices in Grays for a flag raising ceremony.
Piper Jo Goddard led the procession, and the Mayor of Thurrock raised the flag.
Stephen Metcalfe said: “It was great to speak with Piper Jo and support our Armed Forces community at today’s procession in Thurrock.
The world is increasingly dangerous, I am therefore incredibly grateful to those serving in our Armed Forces today who stand ready and willing to act to defend our traditions and freedoms – we must support them every step of the way.
I strongly welcome the Conservatives 2024 manifesto commitment to increase defencing spending to 2.5% of GDP. This marks a £140 billion increase to ensure our Armed Forces have the best equipment to defend against an ever-evolving threat.
We also set up the very first Office for Veterans Affairs, we have waivered National Insurance for those who employ veterans, and we have committed to passing the UK’s first Veterans’ Bill into law.
I will always vote to champion our Armed Forces. I want the UK to be the best place to be in the Armed Forces – now, in the past or indeed in the future.”
