Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what plans he has for a further uplift of UK military personnel in Afghanistan as a result of recent (a) Taliban and (b) Daesh terrorist attacks in that country.

As announced by the Defence Secretary on 27 November 2017 (Official Report, column 20), the UK will increase its troop contribution in Afghanistan from 500 to 650 in 2018. These troops will be deployed in non-combat roles, where they will continue to support the development of the Afghan Army, Police and Air Force. The Ministry of Defence keeps its troop numbers in Afghanistan under constant review to ensure they remain suited for the needs of the mission.

Regarding the recent Taliban and Daesh attacks, the UK stands resolutely with Afghanistan against terrorism and calls for those responsible to be brought to justice. The Afghan National Defence and Security Forces are responsible for delivering their own security and dealing with the insurgent threat, with the NATO coalition training, advising and assisting them in their efforts.