Government in D-Day landings u-turn

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The Ministry of Defence (MoD) said said it would make sure there was "appropriate British attendance" and "provide support so that veterans can participate", but it did not say what form this support it would take.

Last year, Veterans Minister Kevan Jones said it was a "long-standing policy" to use public money only for landmark anniversaries 25, 50, 60 and 100 years after major events.

However, a MoD spokesman said: "There is no question of the Government's commitment to veterans and to full participation in an international commemoration of D-Day."

It is understood Mr Jones will meet members of the Normandy Veterans Association next week to discuss the issue.

The Normandy Landings on June 6, 1944, saw thousands of Allied troops pour onto the beaches of occupied France and marked a strategic turning point in the war against Hitler's Germany.

The MoD spokesman added: "The Government will make sure that there is appropriate British attendance, including ministerial representation, and will provide support so that veterans can participate.

"There is a significant British Armed Forces presence in Normandy every June and there will be again this year, including current members of units which fought on D-Day who will stand alongside veterans at wreath-laying ceremonies."

Earlier this month, more than 300 people signed a petition on the Downing Street website which urged Prime Minister Gordon Brown "to give funding to those war veterans wishing to attend the 65th D-Day anniversary in Normandy".