Wrekin  Conservative MP Mark Pritchard explains why Britain’s role in Afghanistan is so important.

We must stay the course in Afghanistan. The Prime Minister is right to send an additional 500 troops to Afghanistan – taking the UK total to 9,500 personnel.

It is important that our brave armed forces receive increased support so that they are able to build on the progress they are making in bringing security directly to the people of Afghanistan and also indirectly to the streets of Britain.

Development of social and physical infrastructure and improved governance are also critical, but none of these can be delivered without the bedrock of security. I welcome the additional troop deployment of 30,000 American troops as well as 7,000 additional troops from Nato allies, however European nations still need to do far more, especially France and Germany.

Failure in Helmand would be a massive morale boost to Islamic extremists around the world. It would light a fundamentalist torch that could burn destructively for a generation, flaring up in capital cities in Europe, Asia, North and East Africa. Retreat now would also allow the Taliban to return to Kabul, where they would have free reign to re-establish their rule of terror against Afghan men, women, and children.

Within days they would reconstitute their terror training camps with mock-ups of landmark buildings in places like London and Paris. A premature allied withdrawal would also be a huge blow for Nato’s credibility. The Alliance might not survive such a humiliating defeat.

Every brave serviceman and woman who has died in Afghanistan has not died in vain. They have died to make the streets of Britain safer and for that the nation must remain grateful.

Shropshire armed forces personnel have, and are, playing a major role in Helmand, this includes both regular and reserve forces. Having visited Kandahar and Helmand, I can testify to the courage, tenacity, and commitment of our armed forces. They are a credit to Shropshire and the country.

As we approach Christmas let us spare a thought for those who are sacrificing so much in order that we can enjoy the freedoms we have today. Under the Taliban celebrating Christmas was punishable by death.

The costs is high indeed. Casualties mount each week, each loss a personal and national tragedy. But there has never been a war without casualties and the shedding of blood. Freedom is not free – it comes at a very high price.

The Afghan conflict is a brutal and bloody war, but the sacrifices made are a tribute to the fallen not a testament to failure. Progress is being made, albeit slowly. There also needs to be more recognition of the brave sacrifices made by Pakistani security forces. Their losses have been huge.

I have continually called for our armed forces to have the very best kit and equipment available, much of which is supplied by both MoD and private firms. The local and national defence supply chain is a vital and professional part of the war effort. All who work in the supply chain deserve our thanks.

Ultimately, it will be the courage of individual men and women that will bring victory. That is why our armed forces deserve our unwavering support.