RE your letters complaining about the planned restrictions on Gurkhas being allowed to live in this country (HAS, April 28). I have never felt so ashamed of our country. Treating the Gurkha soldiers and their families as proposed was a disgrace.

People I know who have fought with them in wars and conflicts have nothing but the highest praise for them.

The young Gurkha soldiers who visit Darlington town centre are so proud to be in our military and they are very polite and courteous.

I read that it would cost the UK more than £1bn for them to stay.

So what. Stop the people who are entering the UK and who cost us millions. They haven’t done a thing for our country, but will take the handouts we give them.

Back the Gurkhas, not those who come for a free ride.

Well, Prime Minister, dare you ask the people of this country their feelings on this subject? Or will you turn your back on this?

Dennis Banham, Darlington.

■ Footnote: The Government’s proposed new settlement rules for Gurkhas were defeated in a House of Commons vote on Wednesday. However, the vote is not legally binding on the Government and the issue remains unresolved.