Chris backs Gurkha fight for justice (Lewisham Liberal Democrats)

Lewisham Liberal Democrats <info@lewishamlibdems.org.uk>

Chris backs Gurkha fight for justice

September 25, 2008 3:54 PM

Chris Maines with members of the Gurkha Justice Campaign

Chris Maines is backing the Gurkha Justice Campaign

Lewisham Liberal Democrat Councillor Chris Maines is supporting ex-Gurkhas in their campaign to stay in Britain. A test case to allow Gurkhas, former servicemen with the British Army, began at London's High Court this week.

Chris Maines met recently with members of the Gurkha Justice Campaign, who are fighting against the Home Office's refusal to grant settlement to Gurkha veterans who served Britain but retired from the regiment before July 1997. They also want a fairer deal for widows of Gurkha soldiers.

The Brigade of Gurkhas has been associated with the British Army for nearly 200 years, it was fully integrated into the British army in 1947. Over the years it has gained a reputation as a formidable fighting force. Recently, Gurkhas have served in Iraq, Afghanistan, Bosnia, Kosovo and Sierra Leone.

Cllr Maines says "The Gurkhas have been awarded 13 Victoria Crosses, more than any other regiment in the British Army, which shows what brave and loyal soldiers these men are."

In March 2008, fifty Nepalese soldiers handed back their Long Service and Good Conduct medals in protest at the difference in treatment of Gurkhas with other British soldiers, such as those from the Commonwealth.

"The way in which the Government are treating the Gurkhas is shameful," says Cllr Maines, "successive governments have failed these magnificent and loyal soldiers."

Gurkhas who retired from the British Army after 1997 can automatically stay in the UK, but those who retired earlier must apply, and many have been refused and face deportation. Pension rights for years served by Gurkhas before 1997 count at only around a quarter of the level of years served after that time.

On Monday, a delegation of Gurkhas handed in a petition to Downing Street in protest at the government's position, before walking to the Gurkha Memorial in Whitehall to pay tribute to their fallen comrades. On Tuesday a large crowd of well wishes, including many celebrates, gathered outside the High Courts to express support for the Gurkhas in their legal challenge.