FORMER Grenadier Guard, East Devon MP Hugo Swire, has pledged to do his bit for the families of service personnel.

FORMER Grenadier Guard, East Devon MP Hugo Swire, has pledged to do his bit for the families of service personnel.

He backed the goals of the Royal British Legion's campaign website which also features the charity's general election manifesto, lobbying the next Government to improve conditions for service personnel and their families, the bereaved, veterans and dependants.

Kevin Shinkwin, the Legion's head of public affairs, said, "We're really grateful to Mr Swire for pledging to do his bit.

"The entire Armed Forces family needs the support of politicians from all parties, and our manifesto outlines practical ways the next government can help. We hope all the parties will give it serious consideration."

However Mr Swire's pledge comes amid the knowledge that regardless of whoever forms the next Government tight Whitehall spending will force a strategic defence review, the first since 1997, determining on what and where money should be spent.

Hugo Swire said: "As an ex-serviceman myself, I was delighted to support The Royal British Legion. They have an important role to play in highlighting the needs of the whole armed forces family. I have pledged to do my bit and would encourage everyone to visit the website - www.timetodoyourbit.org.uk - to find out how they can get involved in the campaign."

Hugo Swire can be contacted at: The House of Commons, London.

SW1A OAA (Tel: 0207 219 8173)