House of Commons · Written Ministerial Statement
Afghan Relocations and Assistance Policy Scheme Update
01 February 2024 · Ministry of Defence
Proposed by James Heappey Con Wells
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
At a glance
Key points
- The MOD is reassessing all ineligible Afghan Relocations and Assistance Policy (ARAP) applications with credible claims to links with Afghan specialist units.
- Independent staff within the MOD, who have not previously worked on these cases, will conduct the reassessment.
- This process aims to ensure a consistent application of criteria in evaluating ARAP eligibility.
Issue summary
The statement addresses updates regarding the Afghan Relocations and Assistance Policy (ARAP) scheme, focusing on reassessing eligibility decisions for former members of certain Afghan specialist units.
Action requested
The MOD is undertaking a reassessment of all ineligible ARAP applications with credible claims to links with Afghan specialist units. This will be conducted by independent staff within the MOD who have not previously worked on these cases, ensuring consistent application of criteria.
Key facts
- The ARAP scheme assists former members of Afghan specialist units who served alongside UK Armed Forces.
- A review found inconsistent application of eligibility criteria in certain cases.
- Reassessment will be conducted by independent staff within the MOD.
- HMG does not hold comprehensive employment records for such units.