A former royal aide and one-time Special Forces officer has sharply criticised what is seen as a betrayal of certain veterans, aligning with calls for stronger legal protection and an end to retrospective investigations.

In a move that has sparked debate within his party, the Labour leader adjusted his position on welfare, making concessions to internal critics and prompting fresh scrutiny on the PM’s expected response.

Ex-SAS veterans are facing renewed legal scrutiny years after their service in Northern Ireland, prompting senior MPs and former Special Forces leaders to demand robust protections and accuse Labour of betraying those who served the nation.

Ministers are alarmed by a fast-growing party revolt over proposed benefits cuts, as more than 120 MPs rally against the PM’s plan and threaten to derail key legislation.