Troops to stay in Afghanistan - PM - News in brief

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The poignant milestone was passed on Sunday when a suicide blast claimed the lives of three soldiers. A lone insurgent detonated an explosive device as a foot patrol from 2nd Battalion the Parachute Regiment was returning to base.

As the Prime Minister paid tribute to the courage of those who have died in action, Downing Street insisted "progress" was being made.

The Prime Minister's spokesman said: "The Prime Minister is convinced that staying in Afghanistan is the right thing to do. It is a country that if we were to leave the forces of the Taliban unchecked, would be a source of major instability."

Earlier, Mr Brown offered his condolences to the soldiers' families. He said: "I want to pay tribute to the courage of all the 100 British troops who have given their lives in Afghanistan in the service of their country.

"The risks they bear and the sacrifices they make should be in our thoughts, not just today but every day.

"They have paid the ultimate price, but they have achieved something of lasting value - helping turn a lawless region sheltering terrorists into an emerging democracy."

Four soldiers were injured in the attack in the Upper Sangin Valley in Helmand Province and evacuated to Camp Bastion for treatment.

One was pronounced dead on arrival and, despite medics' efforts, another two died from their wounds. The fourth soldier is expected to make a good recovery.

Of the 100 British troops killed in Afghanistan since operations began in October 2001, 74 died as a result of hostile action. The remaining 26 died from illness, accidents, non-combat injuries or have not yet been formally assigned a cause of death.