Military analysts determined that more resources were needed to secure population centers, train local troops and ward off insurgent forces.

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In his first statement to MPs since taking on the new role Philip Hammond said UK troops in Helmand province were having a "tangible impact" on insurgent activity.

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But optimists note that perhaps a hundred are now seen as ready to some degree, and Iraqi troops took a leading role in a recent offensive in Tel Afar, an insurgent stronghold.

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He said security in Helmand was improving, with Afghan forces now responsible for the bulk of the province - but that the environment in which UK troops operated remained "risky and dangerous including the threat of improvised explosive devices and insurgent attack".

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While agreeing that there had been progress, Mr Brown said that "gains have been overshadowed by recent events" including some allies setting unilateral withdrawal dates for their troops, a deterioration in relations between the United States and Pakistan, and continuing insurgent attacks.

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