Local MP Fay Jones has criticised the Liberal Democrats for an ‘unhelpful intervention’ into the debate on Gurkha pensions.
Ms Jones, who spoke about her support for the Gurkhas in her Maiden Speech in the House of Commons, has raised the issue with the Secretary of State for Defence. It follows a hunger strike in Downing Street by a group of former Gurkha soldiers.
Ms Jones said:
“Our words matter and it’s essential we speak from a place of knowledge – not just firing off a press release because it’s another chance to hit the Conservatives.
Recent inaccurate statements from the local Liberal Democrats are not just unhelpful, they could create serious anxiety within the Gurkha community. This is deeply regrettable – Brecon is twinned with Dhampus in Nepal and we are so proud of our Gurkha friends and neighbours.
The hunger strike in Downing Street is hard to watch but this is a long-running argument after changes made to the Gurkha pension arrangements in 2007. I have spoken to Ben Wallace MP, Secretary of State for Defence, and I am glad he is taking steps to look at the small number of veterans who were disadvantaged by this change.
It’s important to remind all Gurkha families that despite what the Liberal Democrats say, their pensions are not under threat. Since 2003, all Gurkha soldiers receive the equivalent pension as UK soldiers.
I will defend the military until my last breath, but particularly the Gurkhas who give such incredible service both to HM Forces and to our local community.”