Major Afghanistan rethink needed

SNP Westminster Leader and Defence Spokesperson, Angus Robertson MP, has welcomed the constructive tone of talks at

a summit of world leaders who met in London to discuss Afghanistan's future but warned that a fundamental reassessment of the UK’s mission in the region was still massively overdue.

Commenting, Mr Robertson said:

"This show of commitment to ending the conflict in Afghanistan is welcome but warm words on the international stage will not help our troops on the frontline.

"Today’s meeting must be more than just a photo call – it must take the international effort for tackling the conflict in Afghanistan forward with a coordinated and considered approach.

"And the UK Government must re-examine its own action in the region. 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 little 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."