Former MP Johnny Mercer Avoids Immediate Jail Over SAS Inquiry

Former Conservative MP Johnny Mercer has temporarily avoided jail for not cooperating with a public inquiry into alleged unlawful killings by the SAS in Afghanistan. The presiding judge lifted the immediate threat after Mercer offered further information but did not disclose the names of two military sources. The inquiry investigates claims that the SAS unlawfully killed 80 Afghan civilians between 2010 and 2013.

Johnny Mercer, former Conservative MP and minister, has temporarily avoided the threat of jail for not cooperating with a public inquiry into alleged unlawful killings by the SAS in Afghanistan.

Presiding Judge Charles Haddon-Cave has lifted the immediate threat after Mercer offered to provide further information, despite not revealing the names of two military sources.

This inquiry examines claims that the SAS unlawfully killed 80 Afghan civilians between 2010 and 2013.

Refusal to assist a public inquiry can lead to up to 51 weeks in prison or a fine of one thousand pounds.

Mercer maintains his refusal to name his sources, citing their confidentiality and lack of consent.