Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministerial Statement

Afghan Relocations: Special Forces

01 February 2024 · 11 other contributors

Opened by James Heappey Con Constituency

Defence

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

James Heappey raised concerns about afghan relocations: special forces in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • The Minister of State for Defence provided an update on the Afghan Relocations and Assistance Policy scheme.
  • An independent team will review ARAP applications from former members of Commando Force 333 and Afghan Territorial Force 444.
  • The review aims to address inconsistencies and ensure proper application of criteria.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Government Statement

James Heappey

The Minister of State for Defence (James Heappey) provided an update on the Afghan Relocations and Assistance Policy (ARAP) scheme, focusing on reassessing applications from former members of Commando Force 333 and Afghan Territorial Force 444. He acknowledged inconsistencies in processing ARAP applications and announced a thorough review by an independent team to ensure proper application of criteria. The review aims to address unique challenges such as incomplete records for individuals who served more than two decades ago or during the early stages of the Afghan state apparatus. A written ministerial statement was tabled, outlining the process and a 'Dear colleague' letter will follow by close of business tomorrow. He emphasised the importance of honouring commitments made under ARAP and acknowledged the depth of feeling among Members who advocate for applicants.

Other contributors (11)
  • Luke Pollard Lab Co-op Plymouth Sutton and Devonport

    Question

    The Triples, Afghan special forces trained by the UK, are facing imminent deportation from Pakistan to Afghanistan where they face Taliban reprisals. Around 200 members of the Triples have been denied ARAP support due to inconsistent processing. Pollard inquired about the timeline for reviews and requested information on how many individuals may already be deported or killed as a result of these errors.

    Minister reply

    James Heappey acknowledged inconsistencies in decision-making and took responsibility for shortcomings. The review process will take around 12 weeks, with independent assessors reviewing each case thoroughly. While it is impossible to track those who have been deported without records, the Ministry of Defence (MOD) will alert the Government of Pakistan about individuals included within the review to ensure protection from deportation.

  • David Davis Con Goole and Pocklington

    Question

    I have been approached by people who were involved in training soldiers for Afghanistan, including those from the ARAP programme. They are described as loyal, brave and effective, and the Taliban has been executing them in front of their families. The MP asks if we can ensure that both our administration and relationship with Pakistan deliver on this debt of honour as quickly as possible.

    Minister reply

    The Government of Pakistan have been co-operative and no problem lies there; however, challenges exist in getting people out of Afghanistan due to the situation within the country. The Minister emphasises gratitude towards Pakistan for their cooperation.

  • Chris Stephens

    Question

    The MP asks about the status of individuals who have been granted entry but not indefinite leave, whether they are still waiting or if any have been ejected. He also queries ongoing discussions with Pakistan and the compatibility of persecution due to religion or political beliefs with the ARAP scheme.

    Minister reply

    The MOD is focused on those who served alongside UK forces rather than asylum claims handled by the Home Office. Individuals approved under ARAP receive indefinite leave immediately upon arrival, and the Department will write to confirm this. The Minister highlights the cooperation of Pakistan but also notes their sovereignty in dealing with illegal migrants.

  • Bob Blackman Con Harrow East

    Question

    The MP asks for an assessment of the number of people affected by inconsistent ARAP criteria and how many families are involved. He seeks assurance on reaching out to families and ensuring their right to come to the UK.

    Minister reply

    An estimated 2,000 decisions require review, but it is difficult to determine the exact number needing further scrutiny without a full review of documents. The Ministry will notify those whose cases are up for review and reach out to relevant colleagues in Parliament.

  • Dan Jarvis Lab Barnsley North

    Question

    The MP expresses concern over the delay despite unique commitments, inconsistent application of ARAP criteria, and reputational damage. He seeks assurance that work will proceed at pace.

    Minister reply

    The Minister assures ongoing urgent work but cautions against setting expectations for immigration rewards among partner forces. The MOD acknowledges reputational damage.

  • Christine Jardine Lib Dem Edinburgh West

    Question

    The MP appreciates the commitment but questions why it has taken so long since the collapse in Afghanistan. She seeks assurance that all cases will be looked at quickly and people moved to safety.

    Minister reply

    Cases are being reviewed urgently, focusing on finding interpreters and locally employed civilians from employment records. Challenges arise due to undocumented status and diplomatic relations with some countries.

  • Matt Western Lab Warwick and Leamington

    Question

    The MP asks for confirmation on the number of Afghans accessing homelessness support, following previous eviction of 8,000 ARAP personnel from hotels.

    Minister reply

    The Minister will write to provide this information.

  • Allan Dorans

    Question

    Due to the high number of former Afghan soldiers at risk, the MP asks about discussions on additional safe routes to the UK.

    Minister reply

    Discussions occur regularly. The Afghan citizens resettlement scheme offers an additional route alongside ARAP and ACRS for those who served or worked with UK forces or missions.

  • Alistair Strathern Lab Hitchin

    Question

    Acknowledges the right hon. Member for Haltemprice and Howden's comments about the debt of honour to those who served in Afghanistan, expressing disappointment at unresolved issues despite years passing. Highlights challenges related to documentation from Taliban-controlled offices and asks how the Government ensures safe and efficient routes to obtain necessary documentation.

    Minister reply

    Declines to share specific details with the House due to security concerns about exposing methods to the Taliban.

  • Jim Shannon DUP Strangford

    Question

    Expresses gratitude for the Minister's positive responses and highlights a case involving an individual from Pakistan who worked alongside British Army special forces. Welcomes news of application reviews for special forces members but calls for consideration in reviewing applications for interpreters and other support personnel who are now living in hiding due to fear.

    Minister reply

    Responds that it is easier to confirm the service records of interpreters and supporting staff through employment records, suggesting the hon. Gentleman write with specific cases for further investigation.

Shadow Comment

Luke Pollard

The shadow Minister (Luke Pollard) questioned inconsistencies in processing ARAP applications, highlighting potential failures that allowed some former members of the Afghan specialist units to face deportation or worse. He criticised the delay in reviewing these cases and sought clarity on how many individuals have been deported or harmed due to incorrect decisions. Luke Pollard also raised concerns about the need for clear policy guidance and expressed frustration over public spats between different ministers within the Government regarding ARAP. He urged the Minister to ensure such basic errors do not occur again and to expedite support for eligible Afghans.

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