Vernon Coaker MP, Labour’s Shadow Defence Secretary, commenting on concerns about the future of Helmand province after the withdrawal of British troops, said:

“There are growing concerns about the future of Afghanistan, particularly Helmand province, post-withdrawal of British forces later this year.

"David Cameron’s contention that it will be ‘mission accomplished’ was premature. There is still much work to be done.

"The service and sacrifice of our Armed Forces has contributed enormously to making both Afghanistan and the UK more safe and secure.

"The Government and military should work closely with counterparts in Afghanistan to ensure a proper exit strategy is in place, and clarify exactly what support will be available going forward, to ensure that the work done by our Armed Forces is not lost.”