In a statement published on 20 August 2026, Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Sir Chris Bryant said he had met victims' and survivors' groups and veterans' representatives during what he described as his first few weeks in post. He named WAVE, the CVS Victims & Survivors Forum, SEFF, Commissioner for Victims and Survivors Joe McVey and Veterans Commissioner David Johnstone, and said he held a roundtable with veterans. He also said he visited the RUC Memorial Garden.

Bryant said he wanted to hear as many perspectives as possible and that the past must be addressed to shape the future, including obtaining answers for families of Armed Forces personnel killed during the Troubles. He said the Government remains committed to the Northern Ireland Troubles Bill, which he said would continue its progress through Parliament as soon as possible.

He described the Bill as the last chance to properly address legacy issues and said he wants it to help as many people affected by the Troubles as possible and to command the confidence of those affected, including those who served to protect law and order.