David Cameron Pays Christmas Visit to Troops in Afghanistan

David Cameron visited British troops in Afghanistan during a frosty night in Helmand province. This was his sixth visit as Prime Minister. Despite delays due to fog, he observed the ongoing drawdown of British troops, which will reduce from 9000 to 5200 by the end of next year, with only a few hundred remaining after 2014. The handover to Afghan security forces is progressing, with the aim of Afghans policing their own country. Cameron pledged £290 million to protect against IEDs. Since 2001, 438 British troops have died, and the cost has exceeded £17 billion. The work continues for troops in Helmand.

What was the purpose of David Cameron's visit to Afghanistan?

How many British troops were in Afghanistan before the planned drawdown?

What is the expected number of British troops in Afghanistan after 2014?

What is the current status of the Afghan security forces according to David Cameron?

What did David Cameron pledge for the fight against improvised explosive devices?