The Armed Forces Bill 2021 gained Royal Assent in Parliament on the 15th December, with the amendments introducing a statutory duty on certain public bodies to pay due regard to the principles of the Armed Forces Covenant when carrying out specific functions in the areas of housing, healthcare and education. 

Secretary of State for Defence Ben Wallace said:

Today is a significant day for the military community which for the first time has seen the Armed Forces Covenant enshrined in law.

The Armed Forces Act places a legal obligation on public bodies to consider the welfare of service personnel and veterans alike, giving them improved access to crucial services that we all rely on every day.

It will also strengthen the Service Justice System - an integral part of the Armed Forces and support the unique role of our people who operate globally.

You can read the full press release here: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/new-armed-forces-bill-passed-in-parliament.