Scoop  Top Scoops

Scoop Audio: Key Redeploys the SAS to Afghanistan

By Spike Mountjoy

Click for big version

• Scoop Audio:

Today Prime Minister John Key announced his government’s decision to redeploy New Zealand’s Special Air Service combat troops to Afghanistan.

The commitment will last up to 18 months, with 70 fighters deployed in three rotations.

The deployment will coincide with a gradual drawing down of New Zealand’s provincial reconstruction team in Bamyan province.

In response to allegations of New Zealand complicity in US detainee torture, Key said NZ troops will hand detainees over to Afghan forces – who, Key says, have assured him the captives will be treated humanely.

Part of New Zealand’s new role will be building the capacity of the Afghan national police.

Listen to the second half of today's Post Cabinet Press Conference below, where Key answers questions about Afghanistan and MP expenses.

Press Play To Start Audio Playing….

DOWNLOAD MP3

Also: Listen to the first half of today's Post Cabinet Press Conference where Climate Change Ministers Smith and Groser announce a 10-20% emissions reduction "target range"

ENDS

© Scoop Media

 

Top Scoops Headlines