§ Baroness Ludfordasked Her Majesty's Government:
What assessment has been made of the impact of unexploded ordnance in Afghanistan on (i) the civilian population of Afghanistan and (ii) any non-Afghan armed forces; and what plans have been drawn up to remove unexploded ordnance from Afghanistan. [HL1232]
§ Lord BachIt is impossible to know how many civilians or non-Afghan armed forces have been affected by unexploded ordnance in Afghanistan, including that originating from before the present conflict. Military action inevitably carries risks but every effort is made in our targeting, and weapons selection processes are rigorous. Every effort is made to avoid civilian casualties.
142WAThe Prime Minister has made it clear that the United Kingdom will not turn her back on Afghanistan and that any political settlement will be supported and sustained through rehabilitation and reconstruction. The clearance of unexploded ordnance may form a part of this programme.