Chris Loder, MP for West Dorset, has issued a statement on the Ministry of Defence’s decision to temporarily accommodate up to 250 people from Afghanistan at Chickerell Camp who have supported the British Armed Forces in their work.
Under the Afghanistan Resettlement and Assistance Policy (ARAP), the UK Government has re-evaluated the risks to ARAP families overseas and has committed its effort to relocate them to the UK at pace.
Mr Loder said: “I’m pleased that we are doing our bit to help those who would otherwise be at great risk in Afghanistan under the Taliban rule and I’m sure that other the people of Chickerell and wider West Dorset will offer a warm welcome to those who will be with us over Christmas time for up to 6 weeks.
“The ARAP scheme is for Afghan citizens who worked for or with the UK Government and British Armed Forces in Afghanistan in exposed or meaningful roles and who are in danger.
“From 13th December, eligible families will begin to move into Chickerell Camp on a revolving basis for a period of up to six months whilst we bring them to safety.”
Mr Loder continued: “It is regrettable that this will have a negative impact on the Cadet facility in Chickerell, but I have been to meet with the Armed Forces Minister yesterday to ask for alternative provision to be found and hope to have an update shortly.”
Chris Loder