Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Nick Harvey and Harriett Baldwin

Monday 5th July 2010 Commons Chamber

[Nick Harvey]

The key to our exit from Afghanistan is that we want to see the Afghans take control of their own security. They are not able to do that yet, but will be better able to do it as time goes on. As they progressively do that, our own troop numbers will come right down and our role will completely change. The process of handing provinces and districts to Afghan control will take place on the basis of an assessment of the facts on the ground. However, the Prime Minister has made it very clear that there will not be British troops in a combat role or in significant numbers in five years’ time. Of course, troops will still be there in a training role, as part of a wider diplomatic relationship like that which we have with other countries.

[Harriett Baldwin (West Worcestershire) (Con)]

10. How much his Department has spent on works of art since 2005.