Afghan Relocations: Special Forces – Commons Urgent Question
An important update from the House of Commons was provided on Thursday, 1 February, concerning the Afghan Relocations and Assistance Policy (ARAP) scheme. This announcement details the commitment of the UK Ministry of Defence to reassess the eligibility of former members of Afghan specialist units, including Commando Force 333 and Afghan Territorial Force 444, for relocation to the UK. The decision comes after a review highlighted inconsistencies in the application of ARAP criteria, necessitating a thorough and independent reevaluation of all relevant applications.
This initiative underscores the UK’s gratitude and responsibility towards those who served alongside British forces, acknowledging their vital contribution and ensuring that commitments made under the ARAP scheme are honored. The reassessment aims to address any discrepancies and apply the criteria fairly to all individuals with credible claims of links to these specialist units. The update reflects the ongoing advocacy and support within the UK for Afghan allies, promising a swift review to amend any necessary decisions and reaffirming the deep respect and commitment towards those who have served.