Afghanistan: Refugees

(asked on 11th September 2023) - View Source

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask His Majesty's Government whether former members of the Afghan Special Police Commando Force 333 benefit from the Afghan Relocation and Assistance Policy; and if not, why not.


Answered by
Baroness Goldie Portrait
Baroness Goldie
Shadow Minister (Defence)
This question was answered on 25th September 2023

The ARAP scheme provides relocation or other assistance specifically to Afghan nationals who worked for or alongside UK forces in support of the UK's mission in Afghanistan, as set out in the specific eligibility criteria in the ARAP policy.

Members of the Afghan national security forces such as Commando Force 333 "whilst their efforts heroic" are not automatically in scope for relocation under ARAP unless they meet these criteria.

Those who are eligible can also apply for support in the UK under Op NEWHOPE. The Ministry of Defence works closely with third sector partners to deliver Operation NEWHOPE, which is our pastoral commitment to support the individuals who have and want to maintain their Defence connection by providing camaraderie, community support, and pathways to employment.

Reticulating Splines