More troops for Afghanistan
The government has announced a further deployment of troops to Afghanistan, bringing the number to double that found in Iraq.
The extra troops will number around 230, this would bring troops numbers to their highest level ever and reflect a genuine change in British foreign policy priorities.
Speaking in Commons moments ago, Des Browne, defence secretary, told the House 400 posts in Afghanistan would be removed but 630 new posts introduced.
There will now be 8,030 troops in the country by spring 2000, most of which will be based in Helmand province.
The news was expected to be announced later today, but Mr Bush confirmed it at his press conference with Mr Brown this morning.
It follows a spate of deaths in the campaign, with the death toll now at 102.
Mr Browne said the use of “roadside bombs and suicide vests” had changed the military campaign in the country.
“We are not alone in Afghanistan,” he continued.
Military training experts, logistical staff and engineers will probably begin tours over the next few weeks.
Earlier today, Gordon Brown said: “We have resolved, first of all, as we did some years ago, that it is in the British national interest to confront the Taleban in Afghanistan or Afghanistan would come to us.
“And so today Britain will announce additional troops for Afghanistan, bringing our numbers in Afghanistan to the highest level.”
The Liberal Democrats welcomed the news but warned the government against overstretch.
Lib Dem defence Spokesman Nick Harvey said: “It is becoming increasingly clear that our troops are being kept in Iraq largely for the political convenience of President Bush.
“It is time the government set a timetable for withdrawal of our forces from Iraq. By continuing to try to fight on two fronts, we are endangering our chance to build lasting security in Afghanistan.”
The Conservatives have supported the measure.
