GURKHA soldiers and their supporters have welcomed a government U-turn on allowing members of the brigade who retired before 1997, and their immediate family, to live in the UK.

Gyan Tamang, who served with the regiment of Nepalese soldiers for over two decades, and is now the chairman of Blandford Royal British Legion, described yesterday’s statement by Home Secretary Jacqui Smith, as “marvellous news”.

The U-turn will grant UK residency to an estimated 36,000 retired Gurkha soldiers, their spouses, and dependent children.

“Gurkhas are not people who want to complain. By our very nature, we are people who want to get on with life,” he said.

“But we have had to fight the government on this issue. It has been like an argument between employer and employee.

“People back home will be thrilled by the news. I have relatives who will be affected. I just hope there is no barrier to the age of the dependent children.”

North Dorset MP Bob Walter said he would be keen to learn the reaction to the statement from serving Gurkha soldiers in his constituency.

“There are about 50 Gurkha soldiers serving in Blandford. They, of course, will already have been taken care of under previous changes to the law,” he said.

“But they will know people who will benefit from this latest concession and I would welcome hearing from them as to whether it goes far enough.

“Personally, I think it’s a decision that is long overdue, but I welcome today’s statement and look forward to the release of the full details,” said Mr Walter.

Tobias Ellwood, former soldier and MP for Bournemouth East, welcomed the decision, adding that his experience of serving alongside Gurkha soldiers had left him with the highest regard for the brigade.

“They are a shining example to the rest of the British armed forces. They are one of the most reliable, disciplined, and organised regiments we have, which is why they are the demonstration battalion at Sandhurst,” he said.

“The nation realised long before the government that Gurkhas have given huge service to this country in a series of wars since 1997, and that we should honour their commitment and gallantry.”