The constituency MP for Enford has said that there needs to be a 'thorough investigation' into the death of Private Jethro Watson-Pickering, the soldier who died on Salisbury Plain on Friday.

The 23-year-old, of 1st Battalion The Yorkshire Regiment, was part of a crew operating an armoured vehicle in a military exercise on Salisbury Plain Training Area.

Read more: Army names Jethro Watson-Pickering, soldier who died on Salisbury Plain

The incident involved a 'road traffic collision', attended to by Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service.

Conservative MP for Devizes, Danny Kruger, is calling for a "comprehensive investigation" into the circumstances of the young soldier's death.

In a statement, the MP wrote that he was "very sorry" to hear the news, and sends his "sincere condolences to the soldier’s family and to his comrades", as well as "thanks to the police and fire service for their prompt attendance at the scene".

He added that a full investigation is needed to determine whether "changes" can be made by the Army.

He said: "While thankfully rare, it is vital that all serious accidents that take place during military training exercises are comprehensively investigated.

"We owe so much to the young men and women who risk their lives for our safety and we must do everything we can to keep them safe as well.

"I am sure the coroner for Wiltshire will conduct a full and thorough investigation into the events leading to Private Watson-Pickering's death and determine whether any changes can be made by the Army."

The Army says that it is now the coroner's role to determine the cause of death.

Confirming the death, an Army spokesperson said: "The thoughts and sympathies of the Army are with the family and friends of Pte Watson-Pickering at this very sad time. 

"Wiltshire Police are investigating and therefore it would be inappropriate to comment further." 

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