Increase in troop compensation 'will provide boost'

The increase in the level of compensation which injured troops are eligible for will provide a boost to military personnel and their families.

This is according to defence minister Kevan Jones, who has sent letters detailing the increased payouts to 140 of the most seriously injured soldiers.

Under the terms of the increase, troops can now receive up to £570,000, a rise from the previous limit of £285,000.

In addition, the rise is retrospective, meaning that around £10 million is to be paid out to 2,700 soldiers who have already been awarded compensation.

Commenting on the development, Mr Jones said: "Our armed forces are inspirational and they deserve the very best support - that is why I am determined to see through the package of measures we announced in the Service Personnel Command paper."

The politician became a parliamentary under-secretary at the Ministry of Defence in October 2006 and is the Labour MP for North Durham.