Do we need a new Defence Minister?

Do we need a new Defence Minister? Bob Ainsworth's comments that helicopters do not remove risk is accurate enough but the underlying implication that the shortage of helicopters may not be important to the war is worrying. Helicopters get troops into position quickly with less risk from roadside bombs; they can also get troops out of tricky situations quickly. They deliver troops behind enemy lines, and in Afghanistan we are now fighting Taliban soldiers who are not fading away when attacked. They enable surprise to be achieved, flanks turned, and they get our seriously wounded back where they can be treated effectively. Suppression fire from 'attack' helicopters deliver a ferocious frightening assault. If we don't have the money to support our troops because our top brass, and top politicians think Trident adds to 'national prestige' then we need reform of more than the political system! Scrap Trident and make sure our troops have what they need!

We also need to look closely at the failure to deliver the schools, hospitals, police and services needed to bring stability. We cannot allow 'aid' to be held up in Kabul so that certain politicians in Kabul can deny funds to political opponents in the countryside why 'our' soldiers pay the price out in the field.

Perhaps we need to buy up the poppy crop and provide it to health services around the world rather than allow it to be sold to criminals to fund terrorism.

Fresh thinking is needed not entrenched positions that must be upheld.

Cllr David Chappell

Lib Dem PPC Bury St Edmunds

Lodge Barn Cottage,

The Green,

Fornham All Saints,

IP28 6JX.

Tel: 01284 764891