ROBERTSON COMMENTS ON AFGHANISTAN STATEMENT

ROBERTSON COMMENTS ON AFGHANISTAN STATEMENT

Speaking following the Prime Minister statement announcing plans to send 500 more troops to Afghanistan – SNP Westminster leader and party Defence spokesperson Angus Robertson MP repeated calls for strategic review of operations and objectives before more forces were deploying.

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

“A further deployment must 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 remain 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.

“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.”