92-year-old British war hero set to be deported
A 92-year-old war veteran who has lived in Australia for over a decade is set to be deported to Britain after his visa was denied because his health issues would be a financial burden on the taxpayer, the Sydney Morning Herald report.
James Bradley, 92, who served in the British Royal Navy during World War II, moved to Australia with his wife Peggie, 91, in 2007 to be close to his family and his grandchildren.
The couple passed their mandatory health test when they first arrived and were place in the long queue for permanent parent visas. However, seven years later James was required to undertake another health test, which he failed. He is suffering the early stages of dementia and is wheelchair-bound.
The couple’s visa was denied as James’ health issues have been deemed to “result in a significant cost” to the health system.
"Considering my background, I think I've been treated shabbily," James told the publication. "I've waited in a queue for permanent residency for 10 years, only to be rejected. I'd like to be able to spend whatever time I've got left here in Australia with my family."
Despite being in good health Peggie’s visa has also been rejected as the couple came to Australia on a joint ticket.
"Although we're old, we do play a part," said Peggie, who picks up her nine-year-old granddaughter Karis from school most days. "We can't believe that anyone knowing our history would have grounds for rejecting us."
Speaking to Ten, Peggie begged the Immigration Minister Peter Dutton to overturn the decision.
“Have a heart – allow him to stay,” Peggie said.
“He served his country during the war. Not just for Britain but for Australia and for all humanity and mankind.”
The couple’s daughter, Sharon Bradley-Town, says her father “could not survive deportation”.
"Every day, the uncertainty around their immigration status weighs on dad's bent shoulders like the heaviest of invisible sacks," Sharon wrote in a letter to Dutton. "He worries terribly about what will happen to him and to Peggie ... when he is gone. He could not survive deportation."