Gurkhas must have the right to stay in Britain after their service in the army

1.24.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Wed 7th May 2008

Lib Dem Leader Nick Clegg MP presented with Gurkha medals at a recent Gurkha Justice demonstration in Westminster [Picture: Alex Folkes / fishnik.com]

The Liberal Democrats will today present a Bill in Parliament calling for the amendment of the current immigration rules to allow former Gurkha soldiers to live in Britain after their service in the Army.

Commenting, Liberal Democrat Defence Spokesperson, Bob Russell, who will be moving the 10-Minute Rule Bill in the House of Commons, said:

"The Gurkhas have a special place in the hearts of the British people, but once they have ceased being members of the British Army, many Gurkhas who wish to live in the country which they have served so loyally and bravely have felt let down.

"My Bill would amend the 1971 Immigration Act to let them have indefinite leave to enter and remain in the UK."