news story

2nd May 2009

Local People Back Gurkha Campaign In Large Numbers

Steve Webb campaigning for Gurkha justice with Joanna Lumley and celebrating the success of the Commons vote with Gurkha protestors in Westminster

Northavon MP Steve Webb said he had been 'overwhelmed' by messages from local residents prior to last week's crucial Commons vote on the rights of the Gurkhas to live in the UK. The Lib Dem MP received dozens of messages from local people in the 48 hours before the vote, many of whom had never contacted their MP before, urging support for the Lib Dem motion on Gurkha rights. On Wednesday (29th April) the motion was passed by a majority of 22 votes, following which the Government issued a statement saying it would 'respect the wishes of the House of Commons'.

Commenting, Steve Webb said:

"There is clearly a massive strength of feeling among local people about the injustice that these brave soldiers have faced. The many messages that I received from local people reinforced my own determination to vote for justice for the Gurkhas. After we had won the vote it was very emotional to go over the road from the House of Commons to meet the Gurkha protesters again and to celebrate with them".