Tri-Service
Afghan Interpreters Lose High Court Legal Challenge
Two interpreters, who risked their lives working for British forces in Afghanistan, have lost their challenge to a High Court ruling that the government assistance scheme open to them is lawful.
In a statement one of the interpreters said he was "disappointed" by the decision and that their fight would go on.
Mohammad Rafi Hottak, who worked for British forces in 2006, was attacked on several occasions and received death threats. He said:
"The threat to interpreters who were proud to work shoulder to shoulder with their British 'brothers' is greater than ever. Your soldiers are at home but many translators remain under threat and unable to work or live with their families because of that threat."
Lawyers for the Afghans are currently reviewing the decision and looking at ways to challenge it further.
The Ministry of Defence, meanwhile, released the following statement:
"We are pleased with this judgment that confirms our redundancy scheme is fair and equitable. All locally employed staff who have worked alongside UK forces remain eligible for support under our intimidation policy, including possible relocation to the UK."
Related topics
Join Our Newsletter
