Government decision great victory for Gurkhas

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Thu 21st May 2009

Today the Government announced that all Gurkha veterans with four years' service would be allowed to move to the UK with their immediate families.

This announcement follows a hard fought campaign, spear-headed by actress Joanna Lumley and the Liberal Democrats, including Chris Huhne, Simon Hughes and Evan Harris.

The Government was forced to rethink its original decision following its defeat in a key House of Commons vote lead by the Liberal Democrats.

Liberal Democrat leader, Nick Clegg said; "I am absolutely thrilled that the Gurkhas have finally been given justice."

"This is a great victory for the Gurkhas and for everyone who has campaigned on their behalf."

"Gordon Brown has finally woken up to the principle that people across Britain understand instinctively: if someone is prepared to die for this country, they must be allowed to live in it."

Commenting Simon Hughes MP said; "This is fantastic news. I have been campaigning for justice for the Gurkhas for several years and I congratulate all those who have worked hard for many years to right this wrong."