"The shocking scenes coming out of Kabul demonstrate the depth of desperation and fear"

Somerton and Frome's MP says we must do all we can "mitigate the most disastrous of outcomes" in Afghanistan.

David Warburton says it is clear there has been a "terrible miscalculation" in the withdrawal of allied forces - adding that it "pulled the rug from under the feet of Afghan people".

Speaking on Twitter, he says the situation is "tragic":

"The shocking scenes coming out of Kabul demonstrate the depth of desperation and fear felt by many Afghans as the Taliban take control.

"It’s vitally important that the Government now does everything in its power to evacuate British citizens, local embassy staff, and those Afghans who so bravely assisted British and allied troops during the 20-year military intervention.

"My thoughts and prayers are with the many Afghans whose lives and liberties now hang in the balance, and I’m glad the Govt is offering asylum to those fleeing. But the Govt must also provide all possible support to those who at risk of persecution at the hands of the Taliban.

"This is a terrible time for our servicemen and women who have sacrificed so much over 20 years. We have chosen to leave and I believe this was a colossal mistake. It makes the West look unreliable in the eyes of our allies, and lacking resolve in the eyes of our enemies."

David Warburton - MP for Somerton and Frome

MPs will return to Parliament later today (Wednesday 18 August) almost three weeks earlier than expected, to discuss the situation in Afghanistan.

There will be a five hour emergency debate after the Taliban took control of the country.

The speed at which they did so is expected to be on the agenda, along with the UK's efforts to evacuate British nationals.

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