Greater clarity needed over our continued involvement in Iraq

Commenting on General Petraeus’ comments today on British troop levels in Iraq, Liberal Democrat Shadow Defence Secretary, Nick Harvey said: 

Gordon Brown last year announced reductions to our presence in Basra which have yet to materialise. The sad truth appears to be that our troops are being used to serve the increasingly desperate political strategies of the White House and Number 10. 

Despite General Petraeus’ comments, there is a staggering lack of clarity over what British troops are supposed to be doing in Basra.  

If Britain’s principle role is training Iraqi forces, why should the situation change over the next two months?  

The Government has not made the case for our continued presence in Basra, it is time to set a timetable for a full withdrawal.”