Danny Alexander visits troops in Afghanistan

Arriving late on Monday evening, he spent the night at main UK base Camp Bastion, before visiting one of the few remaining small patrol bases still operated by British troops to talk with those serving there about the progress made as they train and advise Afghan forces.

The number of British bases has reduced over time as the Afghan National Security Forces have taken the lead for security across Helmand Province. The growing capability of Afghan forces has allowed British troops to move from a combat role to one of mentoring and training.

Danny Alexander said:

"I was impressed to see the work that British troops are doing to help Afghan forces to operate by themselves and take on the security challenges facing the Afghan government.

"I have nothing but admiration for the professionalism with which our Armed Forces take on this challenge.

"My time here has shown once again this is a hugely professional Armed Forces that we are proud to have as a country. The job that's being done here in Afghanistan is first rate and I've been hugely impressed by what I've seen."