What's happened
Veterans' Minister Johnny Mercer is challenging an order to name individuals who informed him about alleged war crimes by British special forces in Afghanistan. He faces potential jail time for refusing to disclose his sources to the Independent Inquiry. The deadline for submission has been extended to 8 May, allowing Mercer more time to present his case.
Why it matters
Johnny Mercer's refusal to name his sources in the Afghanistan Inquiry is a significant act of protecting journalistic integrity. The outcome of this challenge could have far-reaching implications for the protection of whistleblowers and journalists' sources. The case highlights the delicate balance between transparency and the need to safeguard those who come forward with sensitive information.
What the papers say
BBC News reports that Johnny Mercer has been given an extension until 8 May to argue against naming his sources to the Afghanistan Inquiry, citing integrity as his reason. Sky News emphasizes that Mercer is potentially facing prison time for not complying with the order to disclose his sources. The Independent notes that Mercer's challenge to the order comes after he was given until 5 April to provide the names or face a potential prison sentence.
How we got here
Johnny Mercer was served with a Section 21 notice under the Inquiries Act 2005, compelling him to reveal the names of individuals who informed him about alleged war crimes by British special forces in Afghanistan. Mercer has consistently refused to disclose the identities of his sources, citing the need to protect their confidentiality and his own integrity.
Common question
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