The Gazette has learned that six ex-Gurkha soldiers being trained by Dover Harbour Board to moor ships in case of an industrial dispute at the port have withdrawn from the port following a personal intervention from Lib Dem ex-Gurkha Councillor Dhan Gurung.

The former Gurkha soldiers were drafted in by Dover Harbour Board to moor ships in the event of industrial action, with union members currently being balloted over Harbour Board plans to transfer around 200 workers to the private sector.

Councillor Gurung has spoken to union leaders and the ex-Gurkhas.

The six men who had been trained were not aware of the reasons behind the industrial action, and have left the port agreeing not to return to cover strike action.

Dhan Gurung, a Liberal Democrat Councillor for Cheriton on Folkestone Town Council, said: "When I spoke to the men directly this morning, they were unaware of the problems surrounding the port.

"Despite the very difficult circumstances they are in, they are very grateful for the support that the British people are giving the Gurkha cause, and in no way want to do anything that harms those who have supported them so strongly.

"Having spoken to them, they now understand the issues, and have agreed not to work at the port under these circumstances. I thank them for doing so: the Nepalese community in East Kent are proud of our home, proud of the fantastic support we have seen for our right to stay in this country from local people, and proud to play our full part in the wider community."