Admiral Lord Alan West, a member of the Royal Yacht Squadron, has warned that Britain faces a 30 year campaign to defeat terrorists intent on bombing Britain. The Home Office security chief estimates that’s how long it will take to change the mind-set of people who are influenced by al-Qaeda in the UK.

Lord West reveals there has been 16 major plots to create mass casualties in the UK since 2000. One was successful, three failed and 12 were foiled by security services.

Lord West commanded HMS Ardent during the 1982 Falklands War and was awarded the DSO for his part in the conflict which saw his ship sunk by Argentine bombers. He is a member of the RNSA and also a Brother of Trinity House.