send them to gitmo for a vacation

hank hill, buffalo, usa/ ny

I was based in ALAMARAH in southern Iraq on OP TELIC 7. The Iraqi interpreters we had working for us were the bravest individuals I have come accross in my military career. They were men of varied backgrounds who had a real vision and hope for what they believed the coalition forces could achieve in Iraq. Without them we would not have achieved anything in ALAMARAH . They were outstanding men with strong hearts and an enviable depth of character. They were also very humurous individuals who would fit in with ease in our society. One interpreter in particular who became a cherished friend was present at the death of 2 British soldiers yet he still continued working for us. Further without these interpreters many more British soldiers would have died in Iraq. We can not let the Government ignore these individuals who have sacrificed so much for Great Britain.

J, london,

At the end of Vietnam we took out thousands of those who helped us there. Today they're productive American citizens who contribute to this country.

This article leaves me wondering why Britain would disallow asylum to people who have a proven track record of helping her while letting in others who bomb buses, and attempt to bomb business districts, and airports.

I would think having 91 interperters who speak the language of terrorists would come in very handy in the war on terror, and preventing future plots on England.

Murph, Madisonville, USA/KY

Oh, I'm sorry, we let loads of these "asylum seekers" in, then find some turn into tube suicide bombers having lied about who they were in the first place, while those that have worked for us, have risked their lives and undergone a more rigorous interview than almost any other asylum seeker will( from our soldiers getting to know and trust many of these people in a place where trust is an shaky concept ) get what? "join the queue like the rest". Sorry, this is ludicrous. Our actions have put them in jeopardy, so a bit of understanding concerning this would be sensible.

John, Knutsford,

sounds to me all they have to do is ally for amnesty? i suggest you teach them how to fill out form. time is running out. its sad iraqi people fear there life so much, tells me the brittish need to stay and destroy the enemy. the enemy the britts are fighting, are fight for world jihad, not only iraq. britian is part of the world. leaveing the enemy behind to train in its world jihad is sad as well.

james, providence, rhode island

Typically the British Government have got it wrong yet again. It appears to the British public at large that its government welcomes all into the fold - as long as you have an anti-social bent. However, put your life on the line to aid this sorry country and the government of the day look the other way. This is not an isolated incident. Our respective governments have been letting down those minority bodies who have aided our cause for years. A case in point is the Gurkha regiment, who have served this country for years and years and only recently been granted proper recognition (and that with strings attached). Makes one ashamed to be British.

Doreen Porter, Stockport, UK

With British Forces being in many hostile areas around the world (I won't offer an opinion whether the politicians should have sent them or not), I see it as essential Britian looks after the people who have put their lives at risk to help. If we don't do this, who would possibly help our Forces in the future?

No doubt the translators have helped save many lives, of all nationalities, and they and their families should be offerred the protection of living in Britain.

I don't think we need to reverse policy, just have the ability to make exceptions for services rendered.

Of course, the army could "accidentally" fly all the translators and their families to Britian, and they could apply from an UK army base!

Paul Elkington, LEEDS,

Shameful. I've met two of these interpreters working with the British forces in Basrah. They're brave men, who've tried to support their families and to help their country. They've ended up facing more danger than most of us could imagine. To turn our backs on these courageous people would leave us with blood on our hands.

Nev, Bristol, UK

It is absolutely correct to say that asylum may only be granted to a person who has reached the United Kingdom and it would be wrong to flout the law and grant it to someone who is overseas. The solution therefore is for the governmant to fly these people to the United Kingdom and allow them to make their applications once they land.

Anne Maxwell, Widnes, UK

This is report is appalling and against the principles of justice and fair play which are ,or should be, the basis of any democracy. It seems this Government does not think so. The policy will ensure our forces are unlikely to receive any further help in this or other conflicts.

Roy Crawley, Leamington Spa, England

Typical of this Government and its inability to do whats right. This country is sinking under the weight of dubious asylum seekers and illegal immigrants and is too afraid to deal with it - yet genuine people who risk their lives to assist British Forces are ignored and told to look somewhere else for help.
This is an embarrassment for the Government and as a British citizen (and ex-soldier) I hang my head in shame.

Keith, Reading, Berkshire, UK

I really did not think that Britain could sink any lower, to read this news fills me with disgust mixed with sadness when I think just what a reputation for honesty and fairness this country once had.Nobody could have been more proud of his country than I used to be and to watch my homeland sink daily further into disrepute simply hurts.One cannot only blame this Government because the people have voted for them, have backed them and given them their confidence. I certainly think it is time to take the Great out of Great Britain those days are long gone.

Peter B Smith, Lage, Germany

This is a typicaldecision for the Government that treats our Gurkha soldiers and veterans in the same shoddy way. Shame on them. The moral argument will get nowhere; rather suggest it would get good PR in the region, and then we might make progress.

Alison, Colwyn Bay,

Time for the Government to "get real" and do something to help these Iraqis. Is the Homme Office "fit for puropse" yet? Come to that, has it ever been during the last 50 years?!!!

bob wilkinson, milnthorpe, cumbria

They've clearly earned the right to come to and be protected by the UK - anything less would be seen as abuse by the British government - bring 'em home!

Tarni, London, UK

This really does make me cringe to be called British - although this isn't the first time - just look at the disgusting treatment of Gurkha veterans and no doubt others we don't hear about.
I am extremely grateful that there are people out there willing to put their lives on the line on my behalf as I think most of the British people are.

McLaren, Newcastle,

So we let in people who turn round and bomb us and abandon those who show us loyalty. It's a topsy turvy world

Michael, Wokingham, Berkshire

I'm sorry but the constant flight of people, who want to change things, from countries like Iraq, is a good reason why they never change. Interpreters were well paid for the jobs they have done and as far as I'm aware there was no agreement to take them and their families away with the troops. Western democracies were produced by good people prepared to work and suffer for their cause. We are told that maybe a million Iraqis have left already since the invasion. What if this mass of people had stayed? Iraq itself is a great example of how alien democracies cannot change things from the outside by force. At some point, if we are serious about wanting to see change, people must be made to stay. I'm sure that those arguing for these interpreters to be allowed out will be the first to complain when an associated honour killing takes place in the UK. We really have to start viewing the world like adults instead of emotionalising everything like children.

Derek S, Dundee,

I feel ashamed to be British. I wonder if these White Hall warriors have any idea of what loyalty means.

Ged Moran, Manchester, UK

They have put their life on the line many times & saved countless British lives. Many have already been killed, yet we leave them hung out to dry! If its so safe in Iraq let members of our government spend a night in Basrah.

John, London, UK

Here we have the goverment asking for the return of inmates from America. Who may have fought against our troops. We refuse people who help our troops, I agree with jj. Does our goverment have moral standards as they most certainly are without common sense.

Malcolm Skelton, Camberley, UK

This fills me with disgust. So typical of this government, all take and no give.

These people have risked their lives in helping our forces only now to be abandoned in their moment of need. But is that any different from the way this government treat's our forces when they return from active service?

Perhaps Gordon brown should have listened more closely to his father's teachings as a minister of the church.....especially to the parable of the Good Samaritan.

Tom, Helensburgh, UK

Our asylum policy is absolutely nuts; we have no idea who's here and who isn't, we don't crack down on those that are criminals/murderers/racists/inciting terrorism, we pay for people to tak part in voluntary repatriation who then come back and do it again, and we turn our backs on people who have helped us and who are surely eligible to claim asylum from outside the UK under these circumstances.

So much for GREAT Britain. I am apalled by this decision

Lisa, London,

This is an absolute disgrace. These men helped our country in what many would say was an unjust war, they helped us even though they were putting their lives at risk at the time. To simply leave them behind and make them que up alongside every other Tom Dick or Harry for asylum puts shame on our country.

Their lives are probably directly at risk once we withdraw, let them in.

Stephen Henderson, Upminster, Essex,

How do you think Britain earned the title Perfidious Albion ? Governments of this sceptered isle have been doing this for centuries. It makes you feel proud to be British !

Phil de Buquet, Newport, England

Once again another example of the calibre of our politicians
GUTLESS ,they let brave, badly paid men and women keep them safe and well fed at HOME. When asked to consider the sacrifices others have made to help them get re elected ( Lets not forget the GurKha's) they yurn their cowardly backs on them.
Just another day in paradise for you and me was written for them !!!
Disgusting
Tim Walton

Timothy Walton, Bangkok, Thailand

I am stunned Labour party who pride themselves for caring and being in touch with various ethnic communities behave in such a callous way.

Labour seems to support immigration of massive proportion and yet is leaving a death sentence hanging over those that helped our country.
Disgusting behaviour and we will be better off without Labour!

aub, London,

The Iraqi interpreters went in on the job at the beginning of the invasion of the British troupes, with the believe that they were doing their country a great service as they were facing a new step towards democracy. Now all has gone sour and the UK forms part of this and must take responsibility for their part in the whole development and now give the endangered Iraqi interpreters and their family’s asylum- Denmark has done it, so how can the UK not do it? Shame on the UK.
A Dane

Ole Dideriksen, London, UK

Why are we surprised? You would expect this kind of duplicitous behaviour from our incompetant criminal goverment.
It is morally corrupt and indefensible to use people in this way and then abandon them once no longer needed.
Brave individuals who are prepared to put their lives on the line in the service of HM Forces deserve our protection and sanctuary.
If we can accommodate 250,000 east Europeans I am sure we can squeeze in a few Iraqis.
I look forward to the day Blair takes the stand in the Hague when at last international law is upheld.

Paul, York, UK

And that's how Usama and al-Kaeda came to life... I won't be surprised at the next attack on Britain, attempted by former Iraqi "collaborators"

Roland, Budapest,

Bush senior did the same thing to the Kurds after the USA cut and ran from Iraq, fearing a militant Islamic government would be created. His brainless son has set up a situation where a militant Islamic government might now be created and our loathsome government is treating our supporters in the same way as senior Bush treated the Kurds. Does the government REALLY think anyone will help us in the future when we treat them like this??? The sooner we get rid of this dreadful government (and get out of Iraq, which we had no business to do in the first place) the better. The conservatives may not have much to offer, but they have GOT to be better than this dreadful, immoral and uncaring government.

Jason, London, UK

It's really disheartening to know that anyone who has helped U.S. and British troops during this war is not given refuge in our respective countries. They are targets for disposal by the insurgents, and what do they get for helping us during this fight? A bullet to the head if they are lucky, but more than likely a public beheading shown to the entire world on You Tube.

Michael, Clovis, USA, CA

As I keep saying to No 10 Website and they keep replying 'Refused - as a joke' ALL MP's should serve with HM Forces for at least 1 year as a precurser to becoming elligible to be an MP.

Not as they all are war dodgers who send others to do their dirty work. That includes the last PM and his successor.

We should do all we can as true brits for those who stand with us shoulder to shoulder. I dont count the present MP's as true brits til I see them in iraq - actions speak louder than words.

Mike Firth, Leeds, England

Is it any wonder that The British are so mistrusted, when those that help them are treated in such a dishonourable way?

Chris H, Portsmouth, Hampshire

Hold on a minute.

We will not deport foreign *convicted* violet criminals (rapists, murderors, fraudsters, robbers, thugs), and terror suspects because they might be 'tortured' in their home countries.

Yet we would condemn Iraqi translators, allies of the British army in Iraq, whose contribution outstrips even some British citizens (benefits cheats, anyone?), to *certain* death and torture.

Bravo, Gordon. Bravo.

Pete, Cov,

I am dismayed, although not surprised, that our governement treats brave men and women in such a cavalier and uncaring manner. It treats our servicemen in women in a similar fashion although for them the cost of their devoted service may not match that of their Iraqi interpreters. I feel ashamed to look any of these people in the eye.

Kenneth Hebborn, Huntingdon, UK

The Army should put them on a Hercules and drop them off in this country. When here they will receive the full hospitality of the country that all the other illegal immigrants receive and their case is just as strong, if not stronger than many others.

Their problem is they are trying to do this legally.

Our government consistently punishes those who follow the rules while rule breakers are rewarded.

Si, Reading,

This is an absolute disgrace and typical of the lack of humanity that our government shows towardsthe military.

As the government won't even provide decent housing and reasonable renumeration to our own serving soldiers, it should come as no surprise that they could not care less about foreign nationals who have put themselves in acute danger to assist us in Iraq.

Those who are on the front line once again show compassion and reason whilst ungrateful bean counting civil servants ignore them and enforce inflexible inhumane policies.

Scott Wylie, Windsor, UK

is it just a case of use and discard .this is not the way that british values are honoured the gov is trying to set up a test for immigrants featuring britishness would this be an example ?.

john farrell, nelson, lanc,s

This is an appalling situation and I'm ashamed to be Britsh.

A Taylor, Aldeburgh,

It was said that:-

" With Americans as friends, who needs enemies"

It would appear that one can say the same of the British now.

A very sad state indeed.

Harry Freudenberg, Leicester, UK

Of course we won't allow them to settle here. They do not despise us and intend to do us harm like so many of our legitimate immigrants.

ssmith, london, uk

Seems like British imperial views haven't changed, use you and then discard you. With attitudes like this how do they expect to win the war on terror.

Cameron Gill, Basseterre, St. Kitts-Nevis

We must leave this people into the uk.Every other tom. dick & harry comes into the uk, this people have risked there lives to help us to fight the militants. If we do not help this people then they will be dead sooner than later. Wake up Gordon Brown we will need help again when we go to fight in some other country.

ian bennett, swansea, wales

Dear sirs
I would implore Gordon Brown and this British government not to be cowardly and supremely ungrateful to those who have undoubtedly risked their lives and their families' to help the British Army do its job in Iraq. Grant these 'few' asylum. There are many more less deserving asylum seekers.
If this government doesn't reverse its cowardly and unprincipled decision, no others in areas of conflict would bother to help them thus putting our own troops in further in danger.
I am ashamed at the UK government's cynical abuse of ordinary human beings.
I would be taking this up with Patrick Mercer, my local MP.

Dr Michael Ho
Trustee The Holocaust Centre. UK
Ordinary British Citizen

Michael Ho, Retford, UK

This is the typical behaviour of a Labour administration. They are without honour, principle or any kind of moral baseline, driven as they are exclusively by their needs to maintain political power and dominate and control people. These Iraqis have behaved with great courage. They knew what the risks were and responded when we asked for help. If we fail to help them, it will be disgraceful and cowardly conduct the will shame us all.

Jacques Francis, Westcott, UK

"anyone who is seeking to apply for refugee status must do so from within the United Kingdom. There is no exception to that, said a Home Office spokesman."

What a mean spirited 'jobsworth' response that is!

We could not carry out our tasks in Iraq without the help of these people and the fact that the invasion has failed to ensure peace and security is not their fault. Although they have been paid for their services this does not absolve us from responsibility now that it is clear that their lives and those of their families are at great risk. On a purely economic level it makes sense to let them come as they are clearly well educated, well motivated people.

However, at a moral level, we owe it to them to help them achieve a secure future and if that means letting them come to the UK then we should do so willingly. Anything less dishonors all of us. Shame on you Mr Brown!

Kevin Miller, Tonbridge,

These policies of the British authorities is shameful and disgracful.When people risk their lives in helping the British army they should be treated similar to the thugs and religious fanatics who destroyed iraq and are enjoying the benefit of British Democracy .As an Iraqi refugee i feel so bitter in seeeing so many Islamic extremest who hates the British way of life are settling in the UK while sincere and pro democracy elements who fought side by side with British are abondened to their fate's the mercy of mideval Mullah and death squad the coalition brought to power Lobour government is a disgrace on this matter.Those courageous Iraqi should have the support of human rights activists and the British media who should pressurise the British government in granting them assylim,other wise no body in this world will ever trust the British.So many thieves and sectarians from Iraq were given a safe heaven in Britain honest people are thrown to the dogs.Have a heart and consious!!!!

Zuhair, cairo, Egypt

How can Labour believe it is ok to support the amnesty of 500,000 illegal immigrants and yet cannot find space to protect those that have helped this country.

The Labour government is obligated to provide asylum for those who will be persecuted, yet it seems that only applies to those that are a drain on our countries and NOT those who have helped such as these interpreters.

Doesnt this show how hypocritical the Labour government and Gordon Brown are?

aub, London,

Further evidence that when Blair charged into Iraq - whether through blind missionary zeal, slavish support for America, personal ambition, or all three - the end plan had not been thought through at all.

Alan, Cheltenham, Cheltenham,

I think this is absolutely despicable and appalling that the British are so stiff upper-lipped to not help these people. I wonder why the British stuck their grubby fingers in and help stir this mess up in the first place?

After reading this article I feel less proud to be British.

The number of lives that the interpreters would have facilitated in saving should earn them respect and help from the British.

Alexander, Dalton-in-Furness, UK

This is typical of Tony Blair's government. Happy to put have others put their lives at risk - not so happy to give them the backup they deserve. Look at the hospital treatment of those soldiers returning injured.

I would hope that Gordon Brown would take his responsibilty to those who work for our security more seriously.

L Cox, Berkshire, UK

Our government shuts the door on people who are highly qualified, educated and/or have put their lives in danger i.e the Gurkhas or the Iraqi translators and professionals from developing countries but let in people who have criminal records and a warrant for his arrest i.e the failed 21/05 bomber Muktar Said Ibrahim with no problem. For the first time William Hague is righ we should help the ones who have help the UK military.

Moez Adamjee, Hayes, United Kingdom

This is a corruption of the morals of the state and the vilest of betrayals. However, I expect nothing better from the hypocrites currently in power.

Pete, Lincoln, England

Disgusting. Absolutely disgusting. So much for Brown, a supposedly 'more moral' man than Blair.

RH McBride, Co. Down, UK

Yet again, the British Government has made me ashamed to be British. Perhaps we should dump them (the Govmnt) in Baghdad for a month with no support. Incompetent baffoons.

Sam, Sheffield, UK

The reported attitude of the Home Office vis-a vis the Iraqi interpreters, especially when seen in the light of the number and background of "asylum seekers" given refuge in the UK over the past few years makes me ashamed to be British.
The ability of Whitehall bureaucrats to offend grows greater with every passing day

Douglas Rolph, Dereham, Norfolk

Fantastic. And the Labour government wonders why we cant win the hearts and minds battle in the middle east. What do you think these Iraqis are going to do know? Continue to serve us loyally till we pull out? Or do you think they are now going to become part of the insurgency problem as they have ideal positions within both the COB and Basra Palace where they can operate as either fire control coordinators for IDF attacks and/or provide and information about British movements and plans from inside these camps.

All the hard work and British blood spilt in this country will come to nought if idiotic proposals like this come through.

J T Baptist, Darlington, England

It is astonishing that individuals continue to place their trust in the British Government. It is astonishing that good people continue to join and serve in the Armed Forces when it is clear that the British Government treats them with contempt. If only these Iraqis had insisted on a contract, before they started interpreting, that allowed them to settle in Britain . The Government would have initially refused, but reality would have forced its hand. Perhaps anyone dealing with the British Government should assume that they are dealing with a heartless, callous machine. Not of course to be confused with the Armed Forces themselves, which are truly the most wonderful advertisement for British values and care for their people.

Michael, East Preston, England

"The inference from the article is that the Danes have been magnanimous in granting asylum to Iraqi interpreters. But the initial stance of the Danish Government was similar to that presently adopted by the British Government. Only after intense pressure from many sides did they yield and grant asylum to the interpreters and their families. And quite rightly so......." Any factual errors??

John D.C. Lambert, Aarhus, Denmark

We must reverse this policy as it is plain wrong. If we do not it will be yet another massive error in this whole sorry saga.

Alan, Spalding, UK

Perfidious Albion!

Bruce Walker, Wexford, Ireland

Send them up north. The US-Iraqi effort to win this can always use some good interpreters

r. burns, tampa, Fl

Yet again the petty bureaucrats in Whitehall ignore the efforts and sacrifices of those who help this country and her people. To scared to make a decision not covered by the rules, they truly are cowards of the first order.

Roger Viggers, Coalbrookdale,

Im disgusted and frustrated that the true heros of this war are being abandoned. They risked their lives, their families lives, yet the coalition forces are leaving them to rot like filthy animals even animals are treated better in the west. Both the US and the UK governments should be ASHAMED of their actions!!! Why is Iraqi blood viewed worthless???Arent they humans too??? Dont they deserve to live as well???Dont they have the right to live in a free society??? And I thought the States was bad, atleast almost all my coworkers have been given the Special immigrant visa to the States, just a week ago. Cmon Britian, show us that the battle of hearts and minds still stands a chance. Give these people a chance, a chance to live just like you and me. You can find more info on Iraqi's daily struggles on Iraqi blogs. PLease visit them, and find out the truth, the truth about this war and what it did to the once, cradle of civilization.

Neurotic Iraqi Wife, Baghdad-Green Zone, Iraq

How is it that we allow islamic terrorist to come to the UK but do not protect the Iraqis that have helped our troops and government?

John, Moscow,

Utterly appalling but when you consider how the Ghurkas have been treated not surprising. The British government ought to be truly ashamed of itself.

Scandalised, Carlisle, UK

this is why the British are hated all over the world. our leaders always use ambiguous language in relationships with other countries and peoples, to say nothing of the way they treat us (look at the Gurkha's). the worst part however is that they know that the other party has got the wrong idea but they do nothing to disabuse them.

Philip Barnes, preston,

Shame and Disgust in equal measure.

andrew wakeling, london,

Shameful, dishonourable, egregious. All things which we have come to expect from our policy makers of late.

Paul K, Thornton Cleveleys,

Disgusted by Britain abandonning its responsibilites towards the Iraqi interpreters
How can we make our views known to the Home Office in an effective way ?

Kath Davis, London, England

Britain has a long record of disloyalty towards its own alies. One of the most pathetic examples was the treatment of the Polish soldiers fighting in the West during the WWII - they were even banned from taking part in the victory parade in London after the end of the war. Perfidious Albion, you will never change !

Andrew S., Warsaw,

This story says a lot about the values we now have and why Britain is losing its influence and status in the world. It seems to glory in leading in negativity, like rushing into war, but not in compassion. Yet it is care and compassion which set us apart from others.

It seems fine to use these people who put themselves at risk through their services, then abandon them to their fate when they are no longer needed. Shameful and coldhearted.

Elaine Sihera, Maidenhead, United Kingdom

What has happened to the Brits of WW II? Being of Welsh descent, I am confused as to what the English are drinking as of late. Seems they have become a nation that sees no evil or hears no evil..... until it is done to them, then they squeal like a pig. They best think over helping those who have helped them...and do it quickly.

E. Nelson, Jonesboro, USA /AR

Britain has to help these Iraqi staff!

Mike , Malaga, Spain

Yet more evidence of disgraceful and shabby behaviour towards the services and those that support them.

Guy, London,

How do we expect to be able to get help in future relief situations and operations, when we all too often bite the hand that feeds us!

Mike Davies, St Florence, Tenby

The attitude of the government is disgraceful. What's more, the UK could find it harder to get help in future situations, if it develops a reputation as a user of people that abandons them to danger afterwards.

Miland Joshi, Birmingham, UK

91 Iraqi interpreters left at the mercy of murderous barbarians is a tragedy; 45 million Iraqis left at the mercy of the same murderous barbarians is a statistic.
That is the reality of withdrawal from Iraq.

gary, Birmingham , UK

As an Englisman i am ashamed to say that in addition to the usual incompetance and corruption of goverment, another thing successive Uk Govts have had in common is their ability to 'disown' those who have been loyal to the Crown, whoever they may be? (unless there is personal gain!) and regardless of the consequences that may befall them!

Now is an appropriate time to show 'Integrity' has beeen installed!

mike, oxford, england

The inference from the article is that the Danes have been magnanimous in granting asylum to Iraqi interpreters. But the initial stance of the Danish Government was similar to that presently adopted by the British Government. Only after intense pressure from many sides did they yield and grant asylum to the interpreters and their families. And quite rightly so. The situation is completely different from that at the time of the invasion, when some of the gloss of the "liberating forces" might have rubbed off onto the peripheral staff. The regretfully unforeseen present situation is quite different. There are genuine and urgent reasons for granting asylum in the UK. Since the application for refugee status must be made from inside the UK itself, creative thinking is required. Maybe the military camps could be granted some special status territory-wise. After all, the people involved (= UK forces) are surely more significant than the bit of ground they are actually standing on.

John D.C. Lambert, Aarhus, Denmark

It makes me ashamed to be British. We ask these people to help us and like the Gurkha's we abandon them in their hour of need.

Barry Mellish, Bromley, UK

This is typical of our Mickey mouse immigration system: brave people who have done great service for our country and whose lives are genuinely in threat because of that service are treated with contempt meanwhile individuals who hijack a plane and threatened to kill many people are given luxury treatment.

Duncan, Aberdeen,

So again we abandon our friends. These people will continue to be invaluable in our fight against terrorism even in the UK.
Not only should we allow them and their families to come to the UK but they should continue to be employed by the security forces.

C Collier, Fareham,

Thousands have foreigners have gained residence and then citizenship through fraudulent means, sham marriages, pretending to be students or just turning up on our doorsteps after going through songat and holding their hands out.

When people have industriously served this country and then follow the correct procedures by making a formal application, they get the metaphorical "kick in the teeth" what sort of message does this send out? Fraud pays and only idiots tell the truth. Scum bags are welcome but decent, honest, hard working individuals should stay away, our politicians have lost the plot.

Graham Wharton, St. Albans, Hertfordshire

Aside from the moral issue of deserting those who have risked their lives to assist (the reasons for which are irrelevent)and their subsequent endangerment -- Ummmm, wouldn't it be helpful to accept these individuals into the country(ies) and ask if they would like to continue to help with intelligence on a paying basis? They know the ground, they know the languages, they know the culture. Couldn't they be continuing assets? To their and their familiy's benefit and to the 'allied' countries and people.

Talkeetna Black, North Conway, NH-USA

This is appalling. If anything merits public protest, it is this incredible (but apparently not atypical) mean-mindedness on the part of the Home Office. If there is a campaign to help these people, I will happily support it.

Emma, Cambridge, UK

This government of ours should hang its head in shame - certainly I do, in utter humiliation and shame that they claim to represent me. How CAN they treat our brave and loyal friends so shabbily?

Keith, London,

Yet another expample of the British Government letting down the people of Iraq. Not only have they destroyed a Country in the aftermath of deposing Sadam Hussain along with their best friends the Americans; they have now chosen to use and abuse the few people that took a great risk to help them in their endevours to stabilise the Country. Once again we are shamed by our Government.

These people are law abiding people and only seek a safe life for themselves and their families; unlike the criminal asylum seekers that are on the run in the UK at the moment. Again, the Government gets it all wrong - you just have to think of the recent expample of the Ghurkahs, shameful.

Helen, Dubai, UAE

I find it reprehensible that we can use these people for our own ends, and then when their work is done, just abandon them. What kind of democracy are we living in.

This is totally hateful, we can see examples from Denmark and America who are prepared to help, but us!! This country!! We just bury our heads in the sand and ignore the situation. Strong words indeed, but sometimes I feel ashamed to be British.

Sue Metcalf, Portsmouth, Hampshire

Australians are only too aware of British lack of loyalty when during the second world war, it did not send even one ship to defend Australia from the Japanese. Australia had been a loyal friend to Britian throughout its history. Now like the gurka regiments, the allies in Iraq are being abandoned. Wake up to the need for honour in international relations Brits and let these poor people in. They may well be grateful and assist you against the thousands of other muslims born in your country who are ready to kill you.

Peter Gallagher, Brisbane, Australia

These employees of the British Government, will be killed if left, and the Government must know this.

Collin, Croydon,

What do you expect from a Labour Government? Only criminals are given asylum by this shambles of a Government.

Flatroofer, Crossgates, Radnor County

Ah Tony Blair, what a lovely, responsible Prime Minister he was. So full of moral virtue; how lucky we all were to have him. I'm delighted to see that his contemptious attitude towards the heroic Do'ers in this world continues to thrive amongst the passive talkers and skivers in Whitehall. Isn't there some way that these people can swap roles? I know which ones I'd prefer.

Sarah , London,

Why does Britain seem to mess everything up these days?

We seem to combine an officiousness of the lowest sort with scant disregard for those who help us.

Would it be too much to ask to have someone with a degree of competence running the country?

Let's hope that this is just the story being given the press, and that behind the scenes we are taking care of our friends on the quiet.

Stephen, Orlando, US

If the Government were to allow such shameful conduct, we should delete the prefix 'Great' from our counties title and replace it with a European post-code.

This is not what I expect from my country.

John French, Shenfield, Essex

It is untrue that in the past arrangements have not been not made by the British Government to allow entry to people who had been identified abroad as in need of surrogate protection.

It is merely the method by which it is done.

For example there was the quota system allowing, if I recall rightly, a relatively small number about 200, to enter the UK from Pakistant in the late 1980's

Geoffrey Care, Bressay, UK

am not at all surprised by the action of the british government. it has always been like this in relations between the north and south more so AFRICA. They use kenya as a training field for their military and what is left behind is live munition and children born out of rape. The military refuses to compensate anyone and calls raped women cheats even with the children being clearly of mixed race and proof of at least a part played by their soldiers. It is the genesis of the osamas of this world, the use and dump policy, generating a generation that is bitter to the core and desperate for survival at all means and terorrism provides the perfect panacea as its reward is in the after life. with the all fullfilling GOD we all trust and sure Britain has created 91 new terrorists blame not syria, palestine,IRAN or OSAMA, for your woes but yourselves.

cyprian metobo, NAIROBI, KENYA

Typical shabby performance by New Labour.

Most of New Labour's victims are pensioners who might lose their life savings or farmers who might be put out of business and cast in to the street. Sad "but nobody dies". Perhaps teenagers whose life chances will be ruined by a rubbish education.

The difference in this case is that the victims in this case will most likely come to agonising ends in the hands of sick callous individuals seeking to terrorise their co-nationals.

Quite disgraceful.

cuffleyburgers, Lucca,

Another disgrace perpetrated by politicians. We allow criminals like Idi Amins' son into UK but not genuine allies who have risked their lives alongside our troops.
How do they come to such decisions?

Michael Rigg, Newton Ferrers, UK

All too typical if you ask me...better these people sneak into the country and ask for favour than step up and do the hard work to show what they are made. Bureaucrats...what a disgrace.

Anthony Donne, Phoenix, AZ, USA

This government and their employees have done the impossible as far as I'm concerned: found new depths of crassness, incompetence and sheer self-satisfied smugness.

What happened to the British sense of fair play? Who else deserves asylum if not these people, who without doubt have reason to fear "death or torture" if they remain at large in their own country? And who created those circumstances? Britain and our allies.

These jobsworths don't have anything like the balls these translators have demonstrated for months and years. They don't deserve their cushy jobs and the salaries that go with them.

Shameful!

David Hoggard, York,

Isn't this just typical.......we want to take in non-citizens from Guantanamo yet reject these people who must surely deserve our thanks and assistance..........
Milliband......get your priorities right or get the hell out of MY government!!!!!
I

Peter, Tamworth, UK

The British Government's stance on immigration makes no sense. They seem willing to keep all sorts of unsuitable types and turn down the very people who would be of benefit to the Country.

What ever happened to the idea of 'doing the decent' thing'?

I am becoming more and more ashamed of being British and more and more convinced that I will not come back there to live.

Annie Lucas, SydneyN,

I utterly agree that the UK has an absolute obligation towards these men. They should be admitted to the UK forewith. We own it to them and they should all be provided with houses, benefits and the fullest possible support.

However, having admitted these brave people we should also send back to Iraq the ten of thousands of so called 'Asylum Seekers' whose lives are not in grave danger back home and whose talents would be far better spent rebuilding their own country.

peter hogan, Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Rod Munch, Blair's Britain backed Bush's USA to the hilt in the illegal invasion and the subsequent hell on earth it released, we share the responsibility - these people have risked their lives to help our forces and face persecution at best and very probably death (as do their families) as 'high value' targets for the militias if we abandon them. Yes, the invasion was a shameful and inexcusable act, but deserting these people now would be no better.

Ruth , Glasgow, Scotland

Shame on us.....we have a long tradition of being honourable in the Middle East and these people deserve our thanks for their bravery, both now and, especially, in the future.

Eric - with service in Aden during the final years.

Eric Henderson, Perugia, Italy

This is shameful- to grant these people immediate asylum would I believe be viewed by the vast majority of the british public as a tiny discharge of our moral responsiblity for the disaster we have created in Iraq. Set against the context of seemingly rampant, uncontrolled and abused immigration at home this is doubly insulting and infuriating.

This is not something that requires debate or discussion as illustrated by the behaviour of the Danish and Polish governments, countries whose responsiblity to the Iraqi people would appear diminutive compared to our own. Like it or not we have assumed responsibilities in Iraq that cannot be dismissed lightly.

I for one believe a change of government is now long overdue-perhaps my opinion may be changed in some measure if the new prime minister were to display leadership and take this in hand as a priority. It would be the best demonstration of a departure from the disastrous foreign policy premiership of his predecessor.

Matthew , guildford, UK

I have practically given up on this country.
Hardly a day goes by that i am not angered by gov't policy; domestic or foreign.
These people are facing death squads, sectarian punishments etc. They helped us and it is about time we evacuated them to the UK for sanctuary.
It really is tyupical of new labour: backstabbing, spineless, duplicitous and untrustworthy.

thurgood Marshall, London,

Who's helping who here!

b smith, milton, canada

An absolute disgrace. We should make every effort to accomodate these people. But when the government is abandoning our own injured soilders, the treatment of these Iraqi's does not surprise me in the least. I feel ashamed.

Andy, London,

This story makes me sick. First there was the episode of the former Ghurkas being denied settlement. Then we had the report of the doctors and others on highly skilled migrant permits being forced to leave the UK because the Immigration department moved the goal posts for them (after encouraging them to come here in the first place!). Now we have this. If we are not careful, the UK will gain the same "use and abuse" reputation that our friends across the pond have.

John, Bristol, UK

Does it surprise you?

Bob Neilans, Lincoln, UK

History repeating itself.Our politicianshave a history throughout the ages of using"johny foreigner" and then discarding him.I wonder how many,if any of the present Government have ever put their own life at risk for their country or indeed anyone.This is a disgrace but I am sure that if the PM sees any "brownie points" in it he will let them in.

Robin Hart, Sutton Coldfield, U.K.

Come on Gordon Brown - act the statesmen you want to be and trust the british people to back you in making a sensible decision around assylum.

anne , coventry, UK

I am amazed that the weird and wonderful assylum rules of this Government suprise anyone anymore. Maybe if they were convicted criminals or terrorists removed from another country we would accept them with open arms.

Ladies and Gentlemen this is Tony's Britain!

Jon allen, eastbourne, east sussex

Just your typical cowardly weak reaction expected from any spineless British government (all parties) nothing new.
I just truly ashamed to be British.
Voting for any party is out of the question until I see some positive action.

peter tucker, Northwich, cheshire

This labour government has so much to answer for ,going to war on a pack of lies, sending our troops into battle without suitable equipment and now this, but then it is what we have come to expect from these gutless politicians. God how I would love to see these big mouths under fire . They swan out to Iraq and Afghanistan with their big words knowing full well it will be someone else who has to live up to them.

d case, Newquay,

If the Government can't even be bothered to look after our own troops with regards to proper kit etc, what chance is there for anyone who risks their lives to help us?
Seems it's a different story if you come from East Europe though.

Mike Jones, Farnborough, Hampshire

THE SHROPSHIRE VIEW

This is worse than murder,,these people helped us in a war situation

If we leave them,, they will be like discovered spys in a war zone.

These people will be shot as spys by the opposing forces

Nicholas Iles, Oswestry, United Kingdom

Gordon Brown -you should be ashamed of yourself. Yo agreed to go to war (although you seem to have forgotten what you did as a senior cabinet minister over the last 10 years). This is an act of treachery and betrayal. If you allow this, you are not fit to hold the office you do and must resign immediately.

Peter, London,

they offered a service. they took a job, i think, and they recieved thier wages. i think again they signed contracts. so if the british government will give them asulym in uk it eould be extra pay. so there is nothing "cowardly" if not.

hassan, london, uk

This is one of the most disgusting things i have heard recently. I'm not only angered, but embarrased to be British. I think it's high time our entire immigration policy was reviewed and overhauled - clearly if people such as those plotting recent terrorist actions are granted asylum and given benefits, whilst others who have been proved to show loyalty are left out in the cold, something has gone seriously wrong.

Donna Edmunds, Tunbridge Wells, Kent

Absolutely despicable. Lets add some more innocents that this country, or should I say Tony and New Labour, have sent to their graves. 91 bona fide asylum seekers Na nah, hundreds of thousands of illegal immigrants come on down!

Ken Lockwood, BRADFORD,

This is absolutely disgraceful. This is no time to hide behind the red tape - these people trusted you and helped you - do the right thing !

Heather Harteneck, Clearwater, USA/FL

This is disgusting. I have voted labour all my life but if this decision remains then I have voted labour for the last time!
PR, Liverpool

P Ryan, Liverpool, England

Absolutely disgusting, and exactly the sort of thing that created Al Quaeda (abandonment of local forces recruited to get the Soviets out of Afghanistan). When will they ever learn?

S Madsen, London, UK

How can Labour believe it is ok to support the amnesty of 500,000 illegal immigrants and yet cannot find space to protect those that have helped this country.

aub, London,

MN of London says it all; the same cussedness which refused a visa to a VC Gurkha while letting terrorists in and out of the country without question. When are we going to get it right? Pressure from all could force the vital change of mind here.

David Fielding, Faringdon, , UK

Johnny from London,

Your attitude is similar to that of capitalists towards workers prior to the enactment workers’ compensation law. They felt that the employees’ wages were compensation enough for any accidents, even those leading to death, sustained by employees while on the job.

The fact is that some jobs are dangerous and, in this day and age, all employers, even the governments of the UK and the US, have an obligation to ensure the safety of those they employ. It is morally reprehensible that the British government is refusing asylum to these interpreters, since it is almost inevitable that they will face retaliation, including probable physical harm, as a result of their employment.

I just have to wonder if the attitude would be different if these poor individuals and their families were Christian and white--but I guess that is a discussion for another thread!

D Kane, Long County, Georgia, USA

The government response is a stock one that outlines the legislation around asylum-seeking. To be fair to the govt (for once), there is no way that they can just decide on a one-off case to give someone asylum if the person is still in their home country. The definition of refugee status is correct.

That doesn't mean, however, that the government should just abandon people to their fate. They could, for example, arrange an employer visa for the man (pretty easy since his current employer is the British Army) or they could help him to travel to a third country where he could apply for asylum. If I were him, I would try and scrape together as much savings and money as I could and just turn up in the UK without leave to remain, applying for asylum on arrival. It wouldn't be illegal as he is a genuine refugee and he even has a reference from the Army to prove it.
It is a shame he would have to take desperate measures like that, however.

MB, Edinburgh,

To abandon people who are in such danger purely due to their choice to help us is immoral. Each individual case should be fast-tracked through the Home Office, and even if asylum is turned down, relocation to safer zones for these people and their families should be available.
I'm tired of seeing Governments adopt a 'head buried in the sand' attitude.
Without getting into the issue about the Iraqi war right/wrong.....how can we maintain that our stance on the War On Terror is morally right when we act in such an immoral way?
We've set ourselves up to be the good guys, well it's time to let actions speak louder than words.
Do the right thing!

R B Wilkie, Wick, Caithness, UK

We won't let convicted criminals be sent back to countries where their lives may be at risk but we will refuse to allow into this country people who have put their lives at risk for us. Such double standards make us all feel ashamed.

R. Johnson, London,

British justice and fair play are a fond memory, my word is my bond is just a myth, where have all the British gone??

Just who made this decision, name and shame them, surely to God you can find out who is responsible.

Steve F, Baghdad,

The phrase 'perfidious Albion' leaps to the fore.

D Leach, Salem, MA

Why make special provision or even queue-jumping available for those Iraqis who took the queen's shilling: They were will paid for their troubles and now have to face any consequenses inflicted by their own kind, although they may never have to if we loiter much longer in Iraq many of our servicemen and women will be applying for Iraqi citizenship...they will be so old that it will not be worth while going home to die! The only questions thay will ask is 'will we be paid their pensions in sterling/euros/or local currency?

Derek Clifton, Andover, Hampshire, England

I agree with all the morality on display via the HYS. The bottom line should be : are they vettable ?
If not then the answer must be no.
We have quite enough trojan horses clip clopping around our Country as it is thank you very much.
Rely on our Military to flag up likely sleepers/ dodgy chaps/ those who truly deserve the protection of this Country.
Backed up by our Home office / Secret Service checks Etc we should be able to discern the deserving from the downright opportunist / dangerous elements.
The Uk does not abandon Allies but also has the prequisite demand from its electorate that it takes necessary precautions to protect the Country and its / citizens.
Fair Comment ?

Denis Tighe, Glenrothes, UK

I think it's a disgrace! We'll happily feed and house those that come here illegally to seek asylum but when those who without a doubt need our assistance need help we make no concessions. This country is going mad. Or perhaps it's all newspaper spin?

David, Dorset,

I am so shocked by this that I don't know what to say; except it makes me ashamed to be British. How can it happen that we let in all kinds of riff raff and yet not offer protection to these brave people. I can imagine that each case obviously will have to be looked at very carefully as it would be open to abuse but they should be given protection until they have been okayed.

Jo, Bristol,

Can this government do nothing right?
To treat 'employees' like this is callous beyond belief and absolutely disgusting.
Do the right thing.

L Davies, London,

Ministers largely today have never served in the armed forces and faced danger of death in the service of this country. It is deplorable to dismiss those who have helped, in spite of the dangers, to protect our servicemen.
Put all the interpreters (there are really not that many people) and their families into C130's, bring them to Wiltshire in the UK and give them a new life here. Do it anyway and to hell with the questions afterwards!
Imagine the benefit to the UK of having these intelligent and grateful people on our shores. This government's current attitude makes me ashamed to be British. Where is its compassion? We call ourselves a Christian nation. What humbug!

Clive, Witney, UK

We seem to let all and sundry in, giving them accommodation and endless benefits when SOME are not even prepared to commit to their new country and work. Now when there are people who have shown bravery and morality, we suddenly want to enforce rules that have been overlooked before. It doesn't make any sense to me. Why can't we change the immigration rules more in line with those used in Australia - compassion where it is needed, but a firm stance otherwise to allow entry only to those who will contribute to the country.

Treakil, London, UK

The Iraqui people who have been helping should be helped in return. But we didn't help the Nepalese or the Karen people of Burma for their assistance in previous wars. Our government has disappointed a lot of people around the wordl. Perhaps Gordon Brown will make some improvement - he can hardly be worse.

Peter Waring, Rushden, England

You used them; you owe them Do the right thing

Ray Bonnette, Lafayette, Louisiana, USA

Typical of Labour to let in all the wrong people....loads of them... and exlude all the right ones - like these Iraqis - and the Gurkhas.

Phil, Preston,

It is appalling that the current British Government is not willing to help those who have helped us. Is there honour amongst thieves? I do not know how those who made this decision can sleep peacefully in their beds. Presumably because they, it least , are safe there.

How does Tony Blair face himself in the mirror each day that another British military death is announced. Does ex-Chancellor Brown have the honour and the guts to do the right thing?

Roy Shaw, Nantes, France

I thought the American and British goverments had said they are liberating the people , so howcome the " liberated people " feel so unsecure and 4 millions fled the country
Few more liberations like that and the globe will be flooded with refugee ! Be ware Britain !

Mohamed Ahmed, London, United Kingdom

Good way to win the hearts and minds of people. I can only shake my head in wonder at the contnuing misery and pointless destruction in the ruined country that once was Iraq.

God protect us from the politicians.

GK, Calgary, Canada

....and this on a day when our illustrious Foreign Secretary has demanded the release and return of non-British Guantanamo detainees. When will this Country stop bending over backwards to help those that want to destroy it and start helping those that are supporting and defending it.

MN, London, UK

two things:

1) it is absolutely disgraceful even to consider leaving those who have helped us at the mercy of our enemies;

2) if the militias are going to go around killing people, we shouldn't be pulling out. we owe it to all iraqis to ensure stability and security. otherwise, we have no excuse for being there at all.

jem, london, uk

Im Danish and im proud that Denmark granted asylum to the 15 Iraqi interperters that worked for our forces.

What we will receive is 15 educated and highly motivated people (and their familly) who in the years to come will become an asset for our small country.

I belive they will act as a balanced voice speaking against the radical muslims who is trying to dominate the debate in the danish muslim society.

B.Onsberg, Copenhagen, Denmark

There is an online petition at the Number Ten website (search for Iraqi Employees) - with some luck the Government might do the decent thing without too big a push.

Steve, Reading,

This government never ceases to amaze me with its crass moves resulting from acute failure to appreciate the consequences likely to arise from any of its actions. It is steeped in a discredited target oriented culture - which it conveniently ignores when it suits! Take the case of the probable forthcoming amnesty for the few hundred thousand illegal immigrants it has failed to expel from the UK. Now consider the plight of those Iraqis who have assisted the UK forces despite huge risks to themselves and their families - all 100 of them!!? We surely owe them a moral duty to shelter them when we leave? We were happy to have the superb ghurkas fighting and dying for us in various major conflicts over many years, and yet we can turn our backs on them with poorer pensions and deny them entry to the Uk to stay! I sometimes feel ashamed to be British, when we display such cold heartedness towards those to whom we are indebted or morally obliged. We should never forget the Cossacks!

Colin Murray, Tunbridge Wells, UK

There is an e-petition on the Number Ten website at
http://petitions.pm.gov.uk/Iraqi-Employees/

Dr Emmerson, Reading,

This is utterly disgraceful. Indeed hard to believe we have descended so far in infamy.

John Pedler, Sarlat, France

The refusal by the UK government to make adequate provisions for the Iraqi nationals who have been loyally supporting the British presence in their country, post British deplyment, has echoes of the newly elected Labour government at the end of the second world war seeking to repatriate the hundreds of thousands of Poles to their motherland.

That the Polish army had spent the past 4 years fighting along side British troops in all theatres in Western Europe counted for nothing. Thankfully, this shameful plan was never carried out, for if it had been the fate of the Poles would have been the same as the fate currently awaiting the Iraqi's who have been working with with British forces in their country.

One can only hope that on this occasion history does repeat itself and the newly reinvigorated Labour government will again, at the eleventh hour, see sense and backtrack from what seems their intent to condemn otherwise loyal supporters of Britain to dertian death.

Nigel Szembel, London, UK

Tony Blair and Gordon Brown should both be on their knees to these brave people! Apart from humanitarian considerations these people have been and still are valuable. They have saved lives at the risk of their own. The Americans' arrogance and inability to communicate in Iraq were the root cause of the hatred they now face - Britain should not make this mistake.
And to direct ANY concerned enquirer to a website is a breathtakingly callous insult. Millions of voters, passengers, patients and customers get the same brush-off every day. It is inconceivable to use the same approach to asylum seekers.

Rosemary Roberts, Germany,

Did anybody actually expect any other response from this immoral mess of a government?

Jess Rawson, Wakefield, England

the plight of these interpreters and other iraqis employed by the british forces, was highlighted on a programme on BBC radio 4 about two weeks ago.
the action of the british government it is hardly surprising, given the levels of corruption ministers employ to make their own position more safe.
the british have been known to let people down in all the areas it had previously colonised.
as a result of our presence in iraq, there has been an escalation in the numbers requiring asylum, but i do not believe our govt will do the right thing: when have they ever?

lucky, london, uk

Who cares about those traitors - thy should not have betrayed Saddam - which will be the last words they will hear before being executed by former Baath officers. Drinking tea with Britannia in the afternoon is no invitation to dinner - unless you're European.

Gaston, Paris, France

I'm a proud Britain....but this makes me ashamed.....I hope they reverse this cowardly decision.

Andrew Totten, Stockport,

The collaboration between the British and American governments in prosecuting an illegal war in Iraq ought to have been a warning signal to anyone contemplating working for them, whether civilian British contractors or non-British nationals. If you collaborate with an occupying power, it is hard to feel sympathy for these people, who were probably given false promises of security when they signed up.

richard mccance, nottingham, england

These Iraqis have risked their lives - and those of their extended families - to save the lives of British troops.
This reckless war has already made me ashamed to be British, but this thoughtless and heartless attitude of our government makes it worse.
Why would anyone trust us again?
Let's pull out of Iraq, and say a big "sorry" to the world.
Does Gordon Brown (joint architect with Blair as his Number 2) really think our money and lives have been better spent this way, than if we'd used it to invest in the Middle East peace process? You can buy a lot of goodwill with tens of billions of pounds.

Carl Chambers, Brighton, East Sussex

successive governments have betrayed the British and cast them away when no longer required...

Hugh, Londinium, Albion

What the hell is wrong with this Government ?. Are they only interested in helping themselves and yet happy to abandon people who have helped this Country ,and at same time let every other tom dick and harry in without any checks. The Government should do the honourable thing and let these Iraq families in now.

Simon, London, UK

This is thoroughly disgusting behaviour by the British government.... but typical.
These heroic people have helped Britain and now they are being thrown to the lions.
Britain should be ashamed of itself.

Dennis Spence (British Ex-pat), Manila, Philippines

The Goverment is right. There must be individual appraisal of merit. Giving general permission could get a lot of them presently working on the plane to Britain with new voluntiers ready to to replace them. The present interpreters are still needed there and they will not be let down when the time comes. .

A Szucs , Sutton Coldfield,

Hamsa will be rubbing his hands (if he had any) at this great news that we are to abandon those muslims whom have risked their own lives and put their families in great danger for the succes of our operations in Iraq, here are people who have shown great courage and possess skills which would be very helpful to our security services WITHIN the UK, yet are we that shortsighted we cannot recognise that ? At a time when we dont even know the figures for how many illegal aliens are upon our streets, would the numbers be that swollen with these additional peoples ? Its enough to make the whole nation bury their heads in shame, but it will be water of a ducks back to our respective MP`s, i just cannot for the life of me believe we are prepared to hand such a propaganda victory to the insurgents in Iraq and the extremists within the Uk on a silver platter.

Billy mac, Manchester, England

it sounds to me like our new leader and his oxegen thiefs are very like a certain mr j stalin and co takeing liberty,s with iraq,s as well as us all the people of the uk, god bless him

steve dinnes, birmingham, england

This is an absolute disgrace and reminiscent of the treatment the UK gave to many Hong Kong Chinese who wanted British citizenship. Brown should show his compassion and intervene personally.

Iain, Hong kong,

My paternal grandfather were live-in hired hands on a mansion occupied by a British Admiral in the (then) Malayan island of Penang. My grandfather was their gardener, and my grandmother was a babysitter.

When the Japanese invaded, my grandmother was sent home to be with her family, while my grandfather stuck with the Brits for money (im told that the British held a propoganda 'war', convincing the locals that they would never lose to the Japanese). When the British pulled out, they left all the local police, gardeners, butlers, informants, etc, behind and only a handful escaped after taking action on rumours of a massive japanese invasion.

My grandfather was summarily tortured and executed for being a "collaborator of the enemy".

So, unfortunately, this has, and will continue to happen, as long as the British, American and 'Western' troops continue to exploit the needs and insecurities of the locals for their own good, with no intention of treating them as equals.

Shame on you.

Wong, Malaysia,

I agree with Paul Savage. We do not aid those who aided us, but rather let in those who would abuse the country's hospitality.

Sue, Cahors, Toulouse

If a small country like Denmark can manage to provide for those who have helped them, why can't the UK? Especially as it seems like our goverment lets in pretty much anyone most of the time. Surely these are just the sort of immigrants that we need - people who have made a contribution and probably will continue to do so?

Red, Copenhagen, Denmark

Britain is good at discarding and ignoring people who have helped.
The Ghurkhas are a prime example of the disregard shown.
Whilst immigrant criminals, violent agitators and undesirables are allowed to stay, indeed fed watered and housed by HMG at our expense, good people are turned away.

Michael Wilkinson, telford, England

If the government truly seeks to fight terrorism then they should allow these people to claim asylum in the UK. Allowing these people to be exposed to the likely hood of death and torture, will simply further the anti-western outlook which the terrorist are trying to promote. Furthermore at least these people can speak english! At least they are familiar with the concept of work and are willing to risk life and limb to do it!

JohnVZ, London, UK

When you say that "the Americans are set to accept 7,000 Iraqi refugees", the facts are that the U.S. has been making noises of this kind for some time, but in practice, they have also refused to accept Iraqi interpreters, leaving them to the mercy of the insurgents. And did you really expect anything better?

akai ringo, Tokyo,

Again, the lessons of history are ignored - anyone remember the french withdrawal from algeria?and the 150000 algerians who fought for france who were tortured and killed? like most western countries today the uk will do nothing to prevent them but diplomatically condemn the killings as a tragedy after the fact....

Genevois, Geneva,

Just as when Saddam fell many of his senior henchmen and close party supporters were dealt with summarily , once the US and its allies including Britain leave there will be a tragic reckoning.Government officials, other than those at the very top who will doubtless have enough Western contacts to get to a place of safety, will be killed as will their families for being the latest collaborators.Unfortunately interpreters and others who have fed their families by working for us must have believed that democracy could be successfully introduced into Iraq and their jobs would be secure well into the future.We owe them if we are getting out, as seems now inevitable at some future date, for the sacrifices they have made in attempting to better the lot of their fellow citizens.

B JACKSON, NOTTINGHAM, UK

Maybe if they all had illustrious criminal records, instead of bravely serving the very people who would now abandon them all to their fates, there would not be any problem.

David Masu, Zürich,

unfortunately , its not quite as cut and dry as your caption reads am afraid, i work in Iraq, and there are lots of Iraqi locals who help and risk as much and are not with a secure army or FCO offering current protection , its just the way things are here, there are all ready well over 2million documented Asylum seekers who have left Iraq , what do we do? also alot of people are not "eho they say they are" here, its very difficult to Gain any personal data on individuals from a country like this , after all we couldn't identify, the suicide bombers in Glasgow, could we??? How about granting our own Gurkha Troops Citizenship sometimes these men have given over 22years service from their native nepal and do not get it.. I agree in principle to let the people in , as they have risked their lives for sure, so why don't we as a goverment accept more of these great people instead of opening the flood gates to almost anyone !

lee jones, leeds, uk

This is atrocious behaviour on the part of the (Blair?) government.

I can only hope that the "new government" led by Grodon Brown will do the right thing and grant asylum to these brave people and their families.

It would be a betrayal of the worst kind to leave them in Iraq at the mercy of the mil