AFGHAN STRATEGY REVIEW NEEDED MORE THAN EVER

AFGHAN STRATEGY REVIEW NEEDED MORE THAN EVER

As reports suggest the prime minister is "open-minded" about whether more UK troops are needed in Afghanistan, SNP Westminster leader and Defence spokesperson Angus Robertson has said that a strategic rethink on the Afghan mission was needed more than ever before any commitment was made on deploying more forces.

Mr Robertson – who visited forces in Afghanistan earlier this year – said:

“Any increase in troop numbers will be dependent on the Prime Minister convincing us that the government actually has a credible strategy in place and the necessary equipment in the hands of our forces.

“There are too many unanswered questions over the support our existing forces are getting on the frontline to consider sending more troops before key matters of strategy and support are addressed. Such a review is urgent and needed more than ever.

“With the United States government in the process of a review, it is not credible for the UK government to continue as it has without reference to the growing public concern, and crucially the concerns raised by military commanders.

“This conflict has now lasted eight years – longer than World War Two - and questions are being asked by senior military figures about resources and strategy.

“Considering how long this conflict is taking our military personnel deserve a realistic and focussed approach from the UK government.

“That is why a major rethink is required. One that looks at all the options; one that will give people, not least our troops themselves, the confidence that the right strategy is being pursued and is achievable.”