NEW homes for Gurkha veterans could be built in Basingstoke after a Government funding boost.

The town is one of several locations being considered for the veterans and their partners or spouses, after the Government gave £960,000 to Gurkha Homes Limited.

The money comes from a £40million Veterans’ Accommodation fund supported by bank fines.

Other potential locations include Aldershot, Farnborough, Reading, Salisbury and Swindon. The homes will be spread over four locations.

The move comes after a Government inquiry into historic Gurkha grievances. Another outcome was a compensation package for a “small number” of Gurkhas who were discharged as a result of marrying a |non-Nepali.

Anna Soubry, minister for defence personnel, welfare and veterans, praised Jackie Doyle-Price MP, the chairman of the All Party Parliamentary Group who chaired the inquiry.

She added: “The Gurkhas hold a special place in the hearts of British people – this year we mark the bicentenary of Gurkha service in the British Army.

“The work we’re doing to implement its positive recommendations will set the scene for the next chapter in the UK’s close and enduring relationship with the Gurkhas. In turn, they will further cement the strong bonds between the UK and Nepal.”