MP fights for Gurkhas

Rochdale MP Paul Rowen has backed the next stage of the Gurkhas fight.

The Gurkhas, who recently won the battle to settle in Britain are now battling for equal pension rights.

The MP, who is the Shadow Minister for Work and Pensions, this week met several Gurkha veterans to discuss their pensions.

At the meeting, Paul outlined his commitment to ensuring that they receive equal pension rights

Mr Rowen said, "Meeting the Gurkhas was an honour and a privilege and I firmly believe that they should be treated equally and that includes having equal pension rights.

However, it is important that we look over the figures carefully and ensure that equal pensions for Gurkhas are a viable prospect. I have asked the Government to look at this and having spoken to a number of soldiers, it is clear that they don't want this back-dated - they just want parity from now on.

"This is the next step in ending 200 years of injustice for these brave, Nepalese soldiers. I was proud when the Lib Dems defeated the Government over their settlement rights.

"The fact remains though that actress Joanna Lumley had to practically beg the Government. Whilst it was a great step forward, we need to ensure that these brave heroes are looked after."

Councillor Peter Clegg, a campaigner on behalf of the Gurkhas said, "I am very pleased to back this campaign.

"Having served alongside these brave soldiers, I feel that they should enjoy the same pensions that their comrades including myself do.

"The Government has finally faced up to some of its responsibilities but we need to push to ensure justice. I know that my colleagues in the Royal British Legion and Lancashire Fusiliers wholehearted agree."