“Utter Madness To Deny Those Who Risked Their Lives To Support Our Troops Sanctuary”
Published Aug 16, 2017
UKIP Veterans Spokesman, Mike Hookem MEP, has branded a decision to deny
legal aid to a group of Afghan interpreters seeking sanctuary in the UK, “utter
madness and a betrayal of our values and standards.”
A group of over 100 Afghan interpreters are currently bidding to overturn
a court ruling that bars them from bringing their sanctuary case to Britain’s
Supreme Court. The case began after Afghan Interpreters were denied refuge by
the British Government, despite Iraqi’s performing the same role being resettled
in the UK.
The interpreters - who served the British Army during the bitter fighting
of the 13-year Afghan war - say they have been abandoned to the mercies of
Taliban insurgents; have been shot at; must live in the shadows, and face being
killed if they remain in Afghanistan.
At least three former interpreters who fled to Britain are now facing
deportation.
Speaking of the decision, former soldier Mr Hookem said, “these are men
who risked all to stand shoulder to shoulder with our boys on the battlefield.
Therefore, they deserve not only this country’s support, but also our people’s
respect and gratitude.”
