We owe them more than just warm words

FRONTLINE patrol interpreters were the unsung heroes of the military campaign in Afghanistan. Standing shoulder to shoulder with our troops on the battlefield they demonstrated unflinching courage in carrying out duties that were fraught with great difficulty and danger.

The Mail has led the way in championing their contribution – and I cannot be clearer in expressing our nation’s eternal appreciation to these brave individuals who regularly risked life and limb to help defeat our enemies and protect us from terrorists.

But we owe them more than just warm words.

That’s why today I am announcing that we will bring forward plans to expand our relocation scheme to recognise and honour their service – meaning more former Afghan interpreters and their families can start a new life here in the United Kingdom if they wish to do so.

More than 1,000 Afghans have made Britain their home under the Government’s existing arrangements following the gradual withdrawal of British combat troops.

And we estimate up to a further 200 will be able to benefit from the changes we are proposing, which will see the relocation eligibility criteria extended by six years. This will see all interpreters who were made redundant having served for at least a year on the front line from May 2006 eligible to come here along with their families.

This marks the date British forces took control of the operation in Helmand and is a departure from the existing rules, which meant interpreters had to still be serving in December 2012 to qualify.

While initially this was done with the best of intentions to mark the announcement of the gradual British withdrawal from the region, it failed to take account of the immense sacrifice and service of many who had left before that time.

That is why after reviewing the scheme we are bringing forward plans to make it fairer and to make sure we deliver for those who were at greatest risk for the longest periods.

Britain is a nation that always takes its international responsibilities seriously.

That’s why we have supported hundreds of Afghans who worked alongside our troops in a range of roles financially as well as by offering education and training opportunities for five years.

WE also continue to be the only country to have a team based in Afghanistan dedicated to responding to threats made against our valued former Afghan colleagues.

As Defence Secretary, I will always be a voice for our Armed Forces and for those who steadfastly support them.

Brave Afghan interpreters played a vital role in keeping our streets safe from those who want to do this country harm.

They served our nation with dazzling distinction.

And we will do what is right to honour their extraordinary service.