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Search forJoanna Lumley joins Gurkha march
Thursday, September 11, 2008, 18:41
They will head for the Royal Courts of Justice in London's Strand on Tuesday for the start of a challenge to their immigration status.
Gurkhas who retired from the British Army after 1997 can automatically stay in the UK but those who retired earlier must apply and can be refused and deported.
The Absolutely Fabulous actress will lead thousands of ex-British Gurkha soldiers and their families to the courts for a test case being brought by five veteran Gurkhas and the widow of a veteran Gurkha.
Among the protesters will be Victoria Cross winner Honorary Lieutenant Tul Bahadur Pun who served with Joanna's father during the Second World War in Burma.
Joanna said: "My own father served with the Gurkhas for 30 years. Indeed, he saw action as a Chindit in Burma with Mr Pun VC.
"Like so many people in Britain I am ashamed at how successive governments have failed these magnificent and loyal soldiers.
"The overwhelming wish of the British is to allow them to live here with us if they so choose. I sincerely hope the court finds in their favour next week."
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