To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what his policy is on whether a co-ordinator to head international reconstruction and development work in Afghanistan at the UN Security Council should be appointed; and if he will make a statement. (164098)

Tom Koenigs is the current special representative to the UN Secretary-General in Afghanistan. His remit covers co-ordination of international reconstruction and development work. His contract extends to February 2008 and we, with other UN member states, are discussing a suitable successor.

The UN's role in co-ordinating the international effort in Afghanistan is very important. The UK is committed to supporting the UN effort, led by a senior UN representative for the long term.