The important word in the judge's pronouncement is 'could', surely
More jobs for the lawyers, hoorah!
General Consternation, you sent your men into battle armed with SA80s when you knew there were better rifles available, thereby endangering their Right to Life. Go to Jail and do not pick up your pension!
There is clearly a lot more to be worked out here - like where does the Treasury stand?
SofS for Defence: ''Chancellor, in order to prepare our forces for future eventualities, we need £30 Bn.''
Chancellor: ''F**k off. Here's £19 Bn - and I grudge you every penny.''
SofS for Defence: ''But Chancellor, that will expose our men to avoidable risks, thereby potentially endangering their Right to Life.''
Chancellor: ''Don't worry, the MOD will get the blame, and you'll be long retired by the time the lawyers have stopped squabbling over the bones''.