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For all the column inches, it doesn't look like the war in Afghanistan will divide the parties at the General Election.

and better access to basic healthcare.

"It requires stronger local administration and less corruption, combined with a way back for former fighters who are prepared to renounce links to al Qaida and abide by the Afghan constitution."

So, more of the same then.

The Lib Dems seemingly take a diferent tack: "Time is running out for the mission in Afghanistan.  Unless we change direction, failure is inevitable."

Their idea? Cut a deal: "We should be encouraging a regional peace process working towards a ceasefire and ultimately a political and constitutional settlement with Afghanistan.  A strategy of political reconciliation is now necessary.

"A 'political surge' which engages with moderates and wins them over must now be implemented."

Which is lovely - except it sounds very much like what the Government is already doing - plus a statement of the bleeding obvious.

The only real mention of it in the Tory manifesto?  That they'll stay in NATO, "as necessary in 2010 as ever in order to make progress in Afghanistan".

Is this part of their Big Society shtick?  Not only must we run our own schools and hospitals, it's now up to us to solve Afghanistan as well?

Don't know about you, but I'm pretty busy already.

ends

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