EVEN as the General Election gets nearer, I want to stay focused on the issues I got into politics for and the people who need our help.

Few people are more deserving of our support than our veterans – the people who fight, and risk their lives, to see that our freedoms are secure.

That's why I'm so proud of the Military Covenant, an agreement under this government to make sure veterans and their families get all the extra support they need.

I supported the Military Covenant in Parliament, now I want to make sure it's being implemented locally for our veterans.

I’ve written to the heads of councils throughout the area to ask what they’re doing to implement the Military Covenant and make sure we treat our veterans with the respect and dignity they deserve.

Today, tomorrow and always, let's stand shoulder to shoulder with our veterans.

Graham Evans MP Weaver Vale