Afghans who supported British forces in Afghanistan, facing danger from the Taliban, are being offered temporary accommodation at a military camp in Wales. The Ministry of Defence estate in St Athan, known as East Camp, is part of the Afghan Relocations and Assistance Policy (Arap), intended to aid those who worked with the UK forces and government. Initially, the facility will house 50 individuals with plans to accommodate up to 180 eligible Afghans, offering them sanctuary and eventually indefinite leave to remain in the UK.

This move comes amid criticism of delays and flawed processes in handling Arap scheme applications, with reports last year of over 200 Afghans waiting two years for decisions, and some facing deportation threats. Eligible Afghans under this scheme include interpreters and those with ties to Afghan specialist units, with a reassessment of 2,000 applications promised by the UK government.

The Ministry of Defence has stressed the importance of supporting these Afghans, acknowledging their bravery and risks taken in support of the UK’s mission in Afghanistan. Residents at East Camp will stay for six weeks before moving to more permanent housing, with efforts to ensure impactful integration and respect for both the beneficiaries and the local community in Wales. This initiative reflects collaboration between the MoD, the Welsh government, and the Vale of Glamorgan council, amidst a backdrop of regional tensions over refugee accommodations in the past. The endeavour underscores the UK’s commitment to fulfill obligations towards Afghan allies, ensuring their well-being and successful assimilation into society.