Supporting our Armed Forces

The armed forces are a key part of the identity of West Oxfordshire. RAF Brize Norton is the largest military air base in Europe and home to a third of the Royal Air Force, and those who live and work at the base contribute strongly to our community.

As the Vice Chair (RAF) for the Armed Forces APPG, and with a personal interest in the RAF, I have quickly established myself as a leading voice on defence and RAF matters in Parliament. I have also been a leading member of the campaign to protect our veterans from the spectacle of historic allegations - achieving the first stage of a protection against prosecution for our veterans.

I am working hard in Parliament to speak up on behalf of our armed forces and helping to ensure that West Oxfordshire remains a key military hub long into the future.

News

Robert Champions Contribution of RAF Brize Norton and Invites New PM Boris to Visit

Thursday, 25 July, 2019

During his first parliamentary questions session with MPs, new Prime Minister Boris Johnson was asked by Robert to join him in paying tribute to the “very hard and excellent work” done by everyone at RAF Brize Norton.

Robert Speaks to Veterans Protesting Against Historic Allegations

Friday, 19 July, 2019

Robert said: "I went to speak to a group of veterans who have come to Parliament to protest against historic investigations into armed forces personnel.

Robert Calls for Visa Fees for Commonwealth Veterans to be Abolished

Wednesday, 17 July, 2019

Robert has added his name to a cross-party group of MP’s who have written to Home Secretary Sajid Javid calling for the abolition of visa fees for Commonwealth servicemen and women in the British armed forces.

Robert Attends Annual Veterans v The Rest of The World Charity Cricket Match at Swinbrook Cricket Club

Sunday, 30 June, 2019

On Sunday, Robert attended the annual Veterans v The Rest of The World cricket tournament in aid of Supporting Wounded Veterans at the Swinbrook Cricket Club, which featured a very special appearance by West Oxfordshire’s own RAF Falcons, the UK’s premier military - and the RAF's - parachute disp

Robert Attends Parliamentary Event Highlighting Value of Aerospace to West Oxfordshire

Thursday, 13 June, 2019

Robert has attended an event organised by ADS and the Aerospace Growth Partnership at the House of Commons to highlight the value of the UK aerospace to national prosperity through supporting local jobs and skills.

Robert Pays Tribute to Oxfordshire Regiment at PMQs on 75th Anniversary of D-Day

Wednesday, 5 June, 2019

During Prime Minister’s Questions this afternoon, Robert asked the Deputy Prime Minister, David Lidington – who was standing in for Theresa May and represents Aylesbury in Buckinghamshire – to join him in paying tribute to the “ordinary - yet extraordinary - men and women” who participated in D-D

Robert Visits Gibraltar with the Armed Forces Parliamentary Scheme

Tuesday, 28 May, 2019

With Parliament in Whitsun Recess, Robert is heading out to visit our armed forces in Gibraltar with the Armed Forces Parliamentary Scheme.

Robert Calls for Action to Support Northern Ireland Veterans

Monday, 20 May, 2019

Robert said: "I was pleased to speak in a powerful debate on protection for Northern Ireland veterans. Following on from positive steps forward last week, we now need to see the political courage and will necessary to protect those who served in the UK as well as abroad.

Robert Welcomes Announcement of National Carrier Policy

Friday, 17 May, 2019

Robert said: "I am delighted at the Defence Secretary's announcement of a National Carrier Policy which will set out how our ships will deliver for the UK in the years ahead.

Oxford Mail - Witney MP Robert Courts Welcomes Plans for Veterans Amnesty

Thursday, 16 May, 2019

Robert said: "I am pleased that the new Defence Secretary has announced plans to introduce an amnesty for British servicemen and women who have served abroad.