§ 26. Mr. John SmithTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development what discussion she has had with the Ministry of Defence about co-ordinating activities in supporting nation building in Afghanistan. [62494]
§ Clare ShortA reformed security sector is vital to the future stability of Afghanistan.
My Department, in consultation with both the Ministry of Defence and Foreign and Commonwealth Office, is contributing to the creation of accountable national military and police forces subject to the rule of law and under central and civilian control; anti-narcotics activities; and the re-establishment of an appropriate judicial system. The UK has in principle committed £22 million to this process for this financial year. My Department has worked closely with British forces serving in the International Security Assistance Force on the identification and implementation of quick impact projects in Kabul and its environs. These projects contribute to stability, thus allowing political processes and development activities to take root.