DANNATT ATTACK REINFORCES NEED FOR RETHINK

DANNATT ATTACK REINFORCES NEED FOR RETHINK

SNP calls for a strategic rethink of military operations in Afghanistan have been reinforced following claims by the former head of the Army, Gen Sir Richard Dannatt, that UK government ministers had to be taken “kicking and screaming” to agree necessary support for forces, and that the Prime Minister refused requests for reinforcements against military advice.

SNP Westminster leader and Defence spokesperson Angus Robertson – who visited forces in Afghanistan earlier this year – said:

“Sir Richard’s intervention raises real questions over the Prime Ministers grasp of the realities our forces face in Afghanistan, and reinforce the now urgent need for a strategic rethink of operations and objectives.

“The public, and our forces themselves, have the right to question why the current strategy is failing. People need to be convinced that the UK Government actually has a credible strategy in place and the necessary equipment in the hands of our forces.

“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.”