WEIR SUPPORTS GURKHAS FIGHT FOR FAIR DEAL

Angus MP, Mike Weir, joined thousands of Gurkha veterans from across the UK in Parliament Square today to support their demands for equal treatment with UK veterans.

The Gurkhas from the Himalayan Kingdom of Nepal have served in the UK armed forces for 200 years, yet when they retire from service they do not achieve the same pension benefits as UK servicemen.  Many former Gurkhas live in poverty in Nepal. 

Commenting on the matter, Mr Weir said that whilst the recent announcement of equal pensions for those who retired after 1^st July 1997 was welcome it still left a severe injustice.

“Gurkhas who left the service prior to that date do not get the same rights.  This is an injustice and a slap in the face to those who have served in our forces for many years.  The Government should recognise this and give equal rights to those who retired before that date.”