Boris Johnson went on to say "it cannot be right" for military veterans to face the repeated threat of prosection for historical allegations "when no new evidence has been forthcoming".

The Prime Minister has confirmed legislation on historical allegations is being brought forward.

What Was It Like To Serve In Northern Ireland During The Troubles?

Mr Johnson was speaking in the House of Commons following the Queen's Speech, which contained no mention of legislation to protect military veterans from prosecution.

Responding to Tory MP Bob Stewart's question of what would be done about the "urgent" matter of ex-personnel facing allegations, the Prime Minister said: "We will be bringing forward legislation to protect serving and former serving personnel.

"The consultation on that matter has just come to an end."

The Prime Minister's comments came amid claims from a Democratic Unionist Party MP that the Northern Ireland office is trying to "placate" Sinn Fein rather than protect soldiers who served in Northern Ireland during the Troubles.