The loss of life in Afghanistan is heartbreaking – 176 British soldiers killed since 2001, countless more wounded.

I accuse the Ministry of Defence of contributing to these figures by the lack of vital equipment such as helicopters and vehicles which are not equipped with armour-plating which would save our brave lads lives if fitted.

Rumour at the Ministry of Defence suggests that ministers want a 10 percent cut in next year's armed forces budget.

This Labour government sent our boys to fight and die in Afghanistan and bears absolute responsibility. Recently the top civil servants in the Ministry of Defence received massive bonuses.

I want to know what they got those bonuses for. Was it for cutting down on the helicopters and armour that our boys need? – George W. Sankey, Chep­stow.