Greater Reading Lib Dems

Today Martin Salter MP failed the Gurkhas and this country. Martin Salter abstained from this crucial vote, however the Government still suffered a symbolic defeat when MPs voted by 267 to 246 on a Liberal Democrat motion to give all Gurkha soldiers equal right of residence in Britain.

Patrick Murray, Parliamentary Lib Dem candidate for Reading West, says, “I am delighted that this motion passed through Parliament. People who are willing to die for our country should be allowed to live in our country. However, it is a disgrace that Martin Salter abstained from this motion, and put party before principles. Reading West deserves an MP who will vote according to what is right not what is dictated to them, from their masters in Westminster.”

Commenting after the vote defeating the Government, Liberal Democrat Leader, Nick Clegg said:
"This is a historic victory for the Gurkhas who have served our country so bravely. This government has now lost its moral authority. From the first moment I challenged Gordon Brown on this over a year ago, he didn't understand that there was a simple moral principle at stake.”

Editor's Notes:
1) Photograph by Trudie Clarkson. Patrick Murray signing petition for Gurkha rights.
2) To give him his dues Rob Wilson MP Reading East in a written reply, this morning, to a question from the editor said, amongst other things... "We believe there are some technical problems with the motion before the House today but nevertheless we will be supporting it. I will therefore be voting against the government today."
3) Martin Salter has yet to respond!

Greater Reading Lib Dems

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Martin Salter MP fails the Gurkhas
29 April 2009