Chris Evans (WA, Australian Labor Party, Leader of the Government in the Senate) Share this | Hansard source

I thank Senator Brown for his question. To deal with the second bit first, I would not think it unusual for the Prime Minister not to refer to newspaper commentary when making a major contribution about our commitment to Afghanistan in a parliamentary debate. Whether or not Fairfax had an article, which I have not seen, I am not sure it is incumbent upon the Prime Minister to refer to it in her remarks about our commitment to Afghanistan.

I am aware of the media reporting quoting the views of Brigadier Zafar Khan, who is the Afghan National Army's 4th Brigade commander in Oruzgan province. I think it is fair to say that the Australian government is of the view that his National Army 4th Brigade is increasingly capable of providing security in Oruzgan province and that the 4th Brigade may be ready to take over lead security responsibility for Oruzgan ahead of the end of 2014. Afghan forces in Oruzgan are progressively assuming control of checkpoints and operating bases. In line with this progress, the Australian Mentoring Task Force will be in a position to reduce its footprint to the main locations in Oruzgan by the first half of 2012.

I note that Brigadier General Zafar has requested specific types of military equipment for the 4th Brigade. Australia supports the international community's efforts to equip the ANA and is one of the largest donors to the ANA Trust Fund. Importantly, the equipment provided is consistent across the entire ANA and not particular to the 4th Brigade. For this reason, we are working closely with our partners to coordinate the types of equipment provided. But it is fair to say that we are encouraged by the increasing capability and that the 4th Brigade may well be ready to take over lead security responsibility for Oruzgan ahead of the end of 2014.