AFGHAN ELECTIONS AND THE ROLE OF BRITISH TROOPS

Early day motion 1922, tabled 15 November 2004 by Roger Williams (Liberal Democrat). Signed by 30 members.

That this House celebrates the recent presidential elections in Afghanistan; congratulates President Karzai on the inclusive message of his campaign and his 55.4 per cent. of the vote drawn from a wide array of groups in Afghan society; praises the bravery of the people of Afghanistan in voting in such huge numbers; resolves to support the efforts of President Karzai in weakening the power of unelected warlords and tackling the increasing problem of opium production within the country; highly commends the excellent work done by British troops in the country, as part of a truly international coalition; and urges the Government to continue this military presence in the run-up to the parliamentary elections in the spring and to maintain the funding necessary for the reconstruction of a state blighted by 20 years of conflict.

Signatures by party: Labour 17, Liberal Democrat 4, Labour/Co-operative 3, Conservative 2, DUP 2, UUP 2.