SNP CALL FOR AFGHAN RETHINK AS MILITARY CHIEFS DOUBT MOD CAPABILITY

SNP CALL FOR AFGHAN RETHINK AS MILITARY CHIEFS DOUBT MOD CAPABILITY

GORDON BROWN CANNOT IGNORE THE CONCERNS OF FRONTLINE

SNP Westminster Leader and Defence Spokesperson, Angus Robertson MP, has
called for a fundamental review of the UK's strategy in Afghanistan, after
the former Head of the Armed Forces in Scotland, Major General Andrew
Mackay, warned that the MoD was "institutionally incapable" of succeeding
in the region because it had failed to adapt the realities of 21st century
conflict.

Major General Mackay resigned as Scotland's most senior soldier in
September 2009, in protest at the MoD's "muddling through" approach to
Afghanistan. He made his latest comments in a report co-authored by senior
Navy commander, Steve Tatham. The report draws heavily on the experiences
of troops serving on the frontline.

Commenting, Mr Robertson, who visited Helmand province last year, said:

“Gordon Brown cannot keep ignoring the concerns that are mounting over UK
strategy in Afghanistan - especially when they are expressed by respected
and experienced soldiers such as Major General Mackay.

"After eight years of war, there needs to be a fundamental reassessment of
the role, mission and strategy in the region - nothing should be off the
table, including the option of withdrawal.

"There is enormous public support for the troops on the ground, but no
confidence in the Government's strategy in pursuing the conflict.

"The Taliban has regrouped, the heroin trade is flourishing and we are
backing a government with corruption problems. Meanwhile too many ordinary
Afghans are seeing precious little reconstruction and development. With
even a cursory understanding of Afghan history it should be obvious that
this is a recipe for disaster. We need a major rethink now."