Backbench Business

Calls for an independent inquiry into UK involvement in Afghanistan, emphasising the need to understand historical context and military strategy. He outlines various failures including a lack of central governance models and training Afghan forces early enough.

The MP emphasised the importance of a wide-ranging inquiry into the UK's involvement in Afghanistan. He questioned whether Prime Minister Boris Johnson knew about President Biden’s plans before announcing the withdrawal of American forces. Jamie Stone also commended Defence Secretary Ben Wallace for his efforts to evacuate British and Afghan civilians, while expressing concern over the Government’s lack of coordination with other EU countries post-US withdrawal. He supported the idea of a safe corridor for refugees and highlighted concerns regarding defence cuts and their impact on military capability and soft power in the world. The MP also shared an anecdote from 2009 when Russian generals questioned the UK's presence in Afghanistan.

Congratulates the Chair of the Defence Committee on securing the debate and commends him for his leadership. Supports the call for an independent inquiry into the withdrawal, emphasising its importance to those who served in Afghanistan and their families, as well as the people of Afghanistan affected by Taliban rule. Stresses the need for a full, independent inquiry funded properly with full powers to subpoena witnesses, highlighting the political will needed to reassess values and international architecture.

Thanked the Chair of the Defence Committee for securing the debate and praised Parliamentarians and caseworkers for their efforts in evacuating people from Afghanistan. Emphasised the bravery of British and American servicemen and women who worked around the clock under difficult circumstances to evacuate British nationals and Afghans supporting UK operations. Advocated for a focused inquiry into political leadership failures starting with the Trump-Taliban Doha agreement, noting that while joining NATO’s invasion was justified, the Doha deal has been catastrophic. Proposed an inquiry focusing on learning lessons from the Doha agreement up to 31 August and examining the immediate aftermath of the withdrawal.

Responded on behalf of the Government, acknowledging the contributions of British service personnel and others deployed in Afghanistan. Emphasised the absence of major terrorist attacks emanating from Afghanistan over 20 years, highlighting significant improvements in education, health services, life expectancy, maternal mortality rates, and infant mortality reduction. Stated that the UK's focus is now on preserving counter-terrorism gains, providing humanitarian support, promoting inclusive politics and human rights, and ensuring regional stability.

Asked about ministerial engagements during the Taliban’s advance across Afghanistan in August. Highlighted the lack of response from the Foreign Office to submitted questions regarding call logs and other communications details.

Stated that while multiple inquiries have been conducted, it is important to prioritise a new inquiry focusing on the recent withdrawal period without taking an excessive amount of time, as was the case with the Chilcot Inquiry.

Grateful for contributions made on the issue, acknowledges the Minister's seriousness but points out that more questions have been raised than answered. Proposes a formal inquiry or wash-up whenever the country goes to war or is involved in long-term conflicts. Expresses concern over the lack of humanitarian assistance post-Afghanistan withdrawal and criticises NATO's all-in approach under unforeseen circumstances like Donald Trump's potential exit from NATO.

Reminds Tobias Ellwood that he is winding up the debate.