Al Carns
Labour · Birmingham Selly Oak
FULL PROFILEAl Carns is the Labour MP for Birmingham Selly Oak, first elected in 2024. He currently serves as Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence) (Minister for Veterans). As a payroll vote member, they are expected to vote with the government on virtually all divisions.
Ideology
Voting Behaviour
Key Interests
Defence and military affairs · Veterans' welfare · Northern Ireland veterans · Armed forces housing · International security
Positions
Veterans' welfare — Strong advocate for veterans' rights and support services
strong
Armed forces pay — Supports significant pay increases for military personnel
strong
Defence spending — Advocates for increased investment in defence infrastructure
moderate
LGBTQ+ rights in military — Supports equality and opposes discrimination
moderate
Northern Ireland veterans — Supports legal protections and safeguards for veterans
strong
Ukraine support — Strong supporter of Ukraine in conflict with Russia
moderate
Military housing — Advocates for improved accommodation for service personnel
moderate
Reasoning Style
Pragmatic and experience-based, drawing heavily on military background and operational experience. Emphasizes practical solutions and grassroots engagement, often referencing direct visits and personal observations from his service career.
Background
Al Carns served 24 years in the Royal Marines, rising to the rank of Colonel and earning distinguished service medals including DSO, OBE, and MC. He served in Special Forces operations before entering Parliament in 2024.