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As the row rages, Defence Secretary goes on holiday
Joe Murphy and Nicholas Cecil28.07.09
Defence Secretary Bob Ainsworth has gone on holiday while arguments grow over the treatment of wounded soldiers.
The Ministry of Defence confirmed that the Cabinet minister was "on leave" but would not say where he had gone, citing security grounds.
His absence from the compensation debate was criticised by Falklands War hero Simon Weston, who was asked on BBC Radio 4: "Should we not see the Secretary of State for Defence out in front arguing the case?" The former Guardsman replied: "Without doubt, it should be explained to everybody what is going on."
Ministers are always reluctant to cancel a summer break, even during a crisis, because they are unable to take holidays when the House of Commons is sitting.
Mr Ainsworth, the third defence secretary in a year, was a surprise promotion in last month's reshuffle following John Hutton's decision to stand down early. It was felt that promoting the Armed Forces Minister would ensure continuity, but he is junior for such a high-profile post - coming only 21st in the Cabinet pecking order. Military chiefs speculated that No10 did not want too powerful a figure to back their demands for more troops and helicopters.
Allies say the 56-year-old MP for Coventry North East is far stronger in negotiations than his few weeks in Cabinet would suggest. Tony Blair rewarded his toughness by making him deputy chief whip in 2003.
