UK Parliament grilling awaits Brown's ministers over Gorkha shut out

London, Apr.29 (ANI): The British Parliament's Home Affairs Committee has slammed new rules that deny heroic Gurkha veterans their right to stay in the country.The Gordon Brown Government faces a Commons defeat thanks to a growing Labour revolt.

Over 40 Labour MPs have signed a Commons motion attacking the Government decision.Former British Prime Minister Baroness Thatcher has thrown her weight behind The Sun's crusade for justice for the Nepalese heroes.

Campaigners led by actress Joanna Lumley say new rules would only let 100 Gurkhas have British citizenship.

Home Affairs committee chairman Keith Vaz said he would summon the immigration and defence ministers to explain themselves.

He added: "It is indisputable that the UK owes an historic debt of gratitude to the Gurkhas for their brave and distinguished service. We are disappointed, therefore, that the Government has stalled again, and we urge it to reconsider its decision and do the honourable thing, late rather then never."

Martin Salter, who chairs the All-Party Group on Gurkhas' Rights, said: "This disgraceful decision does a great disservice to brave Gurkha soldiers."

The Tories will pledge today that Gurkha veterans would be allowed into Britain under a Conservative government. Shadow Home Secretary Chris Grayling will make it clear those who retired before 1997 will be let in. (ANI)