Vernon Coaker MP, Labour’s Shadow Defence Secretary, speaking during a House of Commons debate on Afghanistan today, said:

“I pay tribute to the commitment of Britain’s Armed Forces to protecting the safety and security of people here and in Afghanistan. Their service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

“There can be no room for complacency about what are complicated and continuing issues. There is still much work to do before the end of our combat mission, particularly as we approach the forthcoming Afghan elections, and there is a great deal of work to be done in the years ahead.

“It is clear that the closer to the withdrawal of international forces at the end of their combat mission, the more necessary it will become for Britain to adopt a strategic and comprehensive approach to Afghanistan. The Ministry of Defence, Foreign and Commonwealth Office and Department for International Development must work ever closer together on issues like rights of women and girls, strengthening the economy and providing military and security expertise.

“Our commitment is to build peace, progress and the lasting stability that our Armed Forces have fought so bravely to secure.”