The Earl of Sandwich askedHer Majesty's Government:
What plans they have to extend the mandate of the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) to areas outside Kabul; and whether the ISAF can protect humanitarian aid workers based in, or travelling to, rural areas. [H L6123]
§ Lord Bach:We have no plans to expand either the tasks or the area of responsibility for the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF). Both are set by the United Nations' Security Council Resolution 1413 and by the military technical agreement with the Afghan authorities. These authorise ISAF to help the Islamic Transitional Authority of Afghanistan maintain security only in and around Kabul. ISAF is structured accordingly and it is not in a position to assist aid workers employed outside Kabul.