Mike Penning MP welcomed the Government defeat over its Gurkha settlement policy - but warns, "we're not there yet".

Hemel Hempstead MP, Mike Penning welcomed the Commons defeat for the Government over its policy on UK settlement rights for former Gurkha soldiers yesterday.

Mike joined MPs from all parties in voting for the Opposition Day motion in which the Government was defeated 267 votes to 246. It was the first time the Government has lost an Opposition motion since 1978.

Speaking afterwards Mike Penning said: “I am delighted that the Government has been taken to task on this issue. It is shameful that the Government is willing to let so many people settle in this country with absolutely no connection with the UK whatsoever and then slam the door in the faces of brave ex-Gurkha soldiers.

“The Gurkhas have a proud and distinguished history of fighting for our country. They have bravely served Britain in all the recent conflicts and many have paid the ultimate price. They deserve far better treatment than they have got.”

He continued:

“Although this was an important result, we’re not there yet. This vote was not binding, so I will be watching closely the new proposals that the Government is now going to put forward.

“Nothing less than full UK settlement rights will do. If the Government doesn’t accept this they will have the might of public opinion against them.”