THE Tory candidate for Thurrock Jackie Doyle-Price has said that recent events in Nepal highlight why Britain gives international aid.

Current estimates say over 5,000 have been killed following the devastating earthquake that hit the region on Saturday.

Ms Doyle-Price said: “Nepal is one of the biggest beneficiaries of international aid. Last year I visited Nepal during the inquiry I held into Gurkha pensions. I saw that UK aid spending was equipping villages with running water and was helping them manage the risks of flood and earthquake.

“Nepal is one of our oldest allies. This year we celebrate 200 years of diplomatic relations with Nepal, and 200 years of Gurkha service in the British army.

“For two centuries we have been taking Nepal’s best men to serve in our army. I would be ashamed if Great Britain did not do its bit to help one of the poorest countries in the world when it is a country that has had such a special friendship with us.

“I am pleased that Britain is at the forefront of the international effort to support the victims of the Nepal earthquake. And all those who support the continued service of Gurkha soldiers in the British army should agree.”