Afghanistan: Withdrawal of UK Forces

Answer from Ben Wallace

NATO Foreign and Defence Ministers confirmed on 14 April that an orderly and co-ordinated withdrawal of NATO forces would start on 1 May, and we have met that timeline. The withdrawal of Resolute Support Mission forces from Afghanistan will be complete within a few months. The UK's Operation Toral forms part of the RSM and, as such, we will draw it down in line with what our NATO allies and partners are doing.

Answer from Ben Wallace

The Afghan forces have been fully responsible for the security of Afghanistan since 2015, and I want to place on record my admiration for their remarkable resilience and courage in meeting the challenges they face. The UK has an enduring commitment to Afghanistan. We plan to continue providing financial sustainment support until at least 2024.

Answer from Ben Wallace

I hear my right hon. Friend's requests—I know he has recently written a letter to the Prime Minister making that request. First, there is a stark difference between Iraq and Afghanistan; the article 5 triggering of that deployment and the causes behind it were not in doubt. Secondly, as Chairman of the Select Committee on Defence, he obviously has significant capabilities and powers to bring forward an inquiry if that is what he wishes.

Answer from Ben Wallace

My right hon. Friend makes a very pertinent point and a very real suggestion. We will explore all options that we can to make sure that we protect not only Britain's interests and citizens, but her allies. We are also protected by international law in doing what we need to do to defend ourselves if a threat emanates from Afghanistan or any other country.