§ Joan RuddockTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what the strategy is of coalition forces in Afghanistan; if they will take part in the provision of security beyond Kabul to achieve the ISAF effect; and what involvement in humanitarian activities they will have. [79686]
§ Mr. HoonOur objectives for the campaign against international terrorism, and for our forces in Afghanistan, were set out in the paper entitled "Defeating International Terrorism: Campaign Objectives", a copy of which was placed in the Library of the House of Commons on 16 October 2001. We continue to work towards achieving all these aims. As part of this, we are considering with our coalition partners who we might aid the Islamic Transitional Authority of Afghanistan to stabilize further Afghanistan's regions. No decisions on what that might involve have been taken.
180W
§ Joan RuddockTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will define the International Security Assistance Force effect outside of Kabul; and if he will make a statement on how it will be created. [798685]
§ Mr. HoonThe International Security Assistance Force has helped the Afghan authorities to restore and maintain stability within Kabul. We are considering with our coalition partners how we might help the Islamic Transitional Authority of Afghanistan to stabilize further other areas of Afghanistan, but no decisions have yet been taken.