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Sunday, Sep 13, 2026

Johnny Mercer Avoids Jail Amid Afghanistan War Crimes Inquiry

Johnny Mercer, former veterans minister, has avoided jail by providing information to an inquiry into alleged war crimes by UK forces in Afghanistan. Mercer refused to name his sources, stressing his commitment to their anonymity. The inquiry cautioned that non-compliance could result in imprisonment.
Johnny Mercer, former veterans minister and Tory MP, has averted a potential prison sentence by providing information to an inquiry into alleged war crimes by UK forces in Afghanistan.

Facing pressure to name his sources by 16:00 BST on Thursday, Mr Mercer submitted further details to the Afghanistan Inquiry.

Despite his compliance, Mercer stated his stance remains unchanged, emphasizing he would not disclose the identities of those who confided in him.

The inquiry, chaired by Sir Charles Haddon-Cave, warned that failure to comply could lead to imprisonment and fines.

The inquiry, established in December 2022, investigates alleged unlawful activities by UK Special Forces in Afghanistan from mid-2010 to mid-2013.
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