Labour denies Dannatt ‘smear campaign’
By politics.co.uk staff
Labour ministers are facing a media backlash after they were accused of briefing against the outgoing head of the Army.
General Sir Richard Dannatt was, according to one report, described as a “complete b*****d” by defence minister Kevan Jones.
The general’s outspoken comments about insufficient equipment for Britain’s troops in Afghanistan have riled ministers and led, according to some newspapers, to a ‘smear campaign’ against him.
Reports suggested Gen Dannatt’s expenses could become the target of freedom of information requests by backbench MPs in an attempt to discredit him.
The government has gone into reverse gear since then, denying claims that the Army chief – who steps down from his post later this month – has “p****d off” ministers.
“Labour has now become the government of fear and smear,” shadow defence secretary Liam Fox said.
“Whilst suppressing reports of their own incompetence, they attempt to undermine the reputation of one of our most distinguished generals.”
