Written question asked by David Atkinson (Conservative) on Friday, 29 October 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 16 November 2004. It was answered by Lord Browne of Ladyton (Labour) on Tuesday, 16 November 2004 on behalf of the Home Office.

Home Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, if he will make a statement on UK citizenship for the Gurkhas.

Answer: Mr. David Atkinson: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will make a statement on UK citizenship for the Gurkhas. [195535] Mr. Browne: My right hon. Friends the Prime Minister and the Home Secretary announced on 30 September a change in policy for Gurkhas and other non-British members of the British Armed Forces which will enable them to apply for settlement in the UK on discharge from the Armed Forces. This will in turn provide an avenue for naturalisation as a British citizen. This new policy on settlement was implemented by an amendment to the Immigration Rules which took effect on 25 October. Officials are now considering citizenship applications made by people granted settlement under the new rules.

Secondary information