22 May 2009

Delighted at settlement rights for Gurkhas

Following discussions across Government, with the Home Affairs Select Committee and Gurkha representatives, I am delighted to say that new guidance will now be issued to allow all former Gurkhas who have served in the British Army for at least four years to apply to settle in the UK with their spouses and dependent children.

The new guidance reflects the will of the House of Commons following the vote on 29 April - while remaining affordable and consistent with broader immigration policy. Gurkhas who retired after 1 July 1997 are already eligible to apply for settlement under the current immigration rules.

I am proud that this Government is the first and only government since the Second World War to provide UK settlement rights for Gurkhas. In 2004, it brought in rules which for the first time allowed Gurkhas to apply to stay permanently in the UK. Since then, 6,000 Gurkhas and their families have settled in the UK.

Home Secretary Jacqui Smith said: "Generations of Gurkhas have served the United Kingdom with great courage, sacrifice and distinction and they continue to make a vital and valued contribution to our operations around the world. 

"Following the clear view expressed by the House of Commons, we have now amended our guidance to ensure that all Gurkhas who served for four years or more can apply to settle in the UK. We will now welcome all those former Gurkhas who wish to live in the UK and we will begin to work through the outstanding cases that have not yet been granted settlement."

I hope you agree that these measures represent a huge commitment to honouring the dedication and gallantry of Gurkhas.

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