The Liberal Democrats are calling on the Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab to “come out of hiding” and urgently update the nation on plans to evacuate all British citizens and Afghan interpreters from Afghanistan.
Commenting, Liberal Democrat Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Layla Moran MP said: “Dominic Raab’s silence is deafening and an insult to all those who have loved ones still in Afghanistan. The Foreign Secretary must come out of hiding to address the country and hold a press conference in the next 24 hours.
“So far we’ve seen nothing but an utter failure of leadership and responsibility. The same will be said if he fails to address the nation.
“With the barbaric Taliban already beginning their hunt for all those linked to allies based in the country, we must not leave anyone behind. Our British servicemen and women relied upon brave Afghan interpreters and everyday citizens to support our fight against the Taliban. We made them a promise that we must keep.
“Today our country is less safe as a result of the calamity which has unfolded before our eyes. If the Foreign Secretary cannot oversee a withdrawal of everyone from Afghanistan, including those diplomatic staff directly under his watch, then questions will be asked if he is the right person to lead Britain’s efforts to prevent the Taliban from allowing a new hotbed of international terrorism to take root.
“Right now, our people need answers and reassurance, not a dereliction of duty.”