Local MP backs out of touch PM.

5.19.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Thu 30th Apr 2009

Despite the backing of local MP Jane Kennedy, the Government suffered a symbolic and humiliating defeat when MPs voted by 267 to 246 on a Liberal Democrat motion to give all Gurkha soldiers equal right of residence in Britain.

Colin Eldridge, prospective Lib Dem MP for Liverpool Wavertree, said: "This is a historic victory for the Gurkhas who have served our country so bravely, despite so many loyalist Labour MP's putting their support for an out of touch Prime Minister ahead of doing the right thing.

"This highlights that not only is Gordon Brown's political radar out of touch with public feeling but many of his ministerial team, including Wavertree's Jane Kennedy MP, are losing their grip and running out of steam.

"This Government has now lost its moral authority. From the first moment Nick Clegg challenged Gordon Brown on this over a year ago, he didn't understand that there was a simple moral principle at stake.

"People who are willing to die for our country should be allowed to live in our country," added Mr Eldridge.