Yesterday, the PM made a statement in the House of Commons on the situation in Afghanistan, setting out our efforts to support veterans of the conflict, ensure safe passage for those who wish to leave and protect the gains of the last two decades. I know this is again something several constituents care deeply about, and i want to thank all of you who have taken the time to get in touch as the situation in Afghanistan has unfolded.
The veterans who served in Afghanistan fulfilled the first duty of the British armed forces – to keep our people safe – and we are committed to doing right by our veterans now that the conflict is over.
That is why the PM announced a further £5 million for military charities offering support – building on the £10 million for military charities announced at this year’s budget and the £2.7 million announced last week for those facing complex mental and physical trauma.
The PM also updated the House on our continued response to the situation in Afghanistan, which include committing to resettle up to 20,000 Afghan refugees, hosting a G7 Leader’s Summit to coordinate the international community’s response and leading the way on a UN Security Council resolution which calls for safe passage for those leaving, urgent humanitarian access and respect for human rights, and insists that Afghanistan not be used to threaten other countries or shelter terrorists.
I believe it is absolutely right that no veteran’s request for help goes unanswered, as we continue to use every humanitarian and diplomatic lever to ensure the safe passage out of Afghanistan, safeguard human rights, and protect the gains made over the last two decades.
I will continue to raise the concerns of constituents regarding Afghanistan with my Ministerial colleagues in the relevant departments.