Ex-Gurkhas protest to live in UK

10.16.00am BST (GMT +0100) Tue 16th Sep 2008

Retired Gurkhas have been protesting outside parliament against the government's refusal to allow them the right to live in the UK. They have been joined by long term Gurkha campaigner Peter Carroll and actress Joanna Lumley, whose father served with the Gurkhas.

Peter Carroll said:

"It's important remind the government that thousands of brave and loyal Gurkhas who have fought for Britain are forced to go to court to ask for something the vast majority of British people think they should have - the right to live in the UK."

Tuesday's test case is being brought by five veteran Gurkhas and the widow of a veteran. The outcome of the case could affect more than 2,000 retired Gurkhas who have been denied the right to settle in the UK.

The Gurkhas' argue that foreign soldiers in the British Army would normally be eligible to settle in the UK after completing four years' service anywhere in the world.

But Gurkhas who retired before 1997 continue to be denied the opportunity to obtain settlement on the same basis as foreign soldiers discharged in the same period.

Related Links:

BBC News report "Gurkhas fight on for equal rights"

BBC News report " Ex-Gurkhas protest to live in UK"

Guardian report "Gurkha veterans' toughest battle - for the right to live in Britain"