SIR – How sad it is to see ex- Gurkha soldiers prepared to go on hunger strike in a row over pensions.

Any Gurkha who retired before 1997 only gets a third of the pension received by soldiers in other units.

This is outrageous and total discrimination.

These brave soldiers have always stood side by side with our own troops and have fought courageously, saving many British lives in the process – and this is how they are rewarded?

They have more right to a decent life than the freeloaders who invade this country looking for an easy life, claiming benefits, housing, free NHS etc.

GB DIPPER

Leominster