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Gurkhas have won an increase in their pensions, but many argued it was too low.

On a visit to the Sir John Moore Barracks in Shornecliffe, yesterday (19 July), defence minister Derek Twigg said: "I want to thank them for their bravery in conflicts around the world.

"This rise demonstrates the Government's commitment to them."

The move, backdated to January 2006, means most pensioners ranked Corporal or below will get a 19 per cent rise which will increase their pensions from £110 to £132 a month, an increase of around £5 a week.

Mr Twigg said it was "in line with the agreement which established a link between Indian Army pensions and those of the British Brigade of Gurkhas".

But veterans argued the rise was too low and many were unable to buy vital medicines. About 26,500 Gurkhas, most living in Nepal, claim a service pension, at a cost to UK taxpayers of £33million a year.