Oktober 15, 2010

US general’s promise over Linda Norgrove kidnap death

Aid worker Linda Norgrove (Photo: EPA)


October 14, 2010 (KATAKAMI / METRO.CO.UK) --- Gen David Petraeus insisted Britain would be fully involved in the inquiry into the apparent ‘friendly fire’ death.

As he met prime minister David Cameron at No.10 to give him an update, the body of Miss Norgrove arrived back in RAF Lyneham, Wiltshire. A post-mortem examination on the 36-year-old will be held before a full inquest.

Gen Petraeus discussed the case with Mr Cameron during 90 minutes of talks.

‘Gen Petraeus said the investigation was a personal priority for him and emphasised there would be full co- operation between the US and UK,’ a spokesman for Mr Cameron said.

US central command has launched an investigation after it was initially reported Miss Norgrove from the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides had been blown up by her Taliban captors. However, film footage suggests she was already clear of them when her would-be rescuers threw a grenade.

Gen Petraeus also thanked Mr Cameron for the ongoing British commitment to Afghanistan and the ‘valued contribution made by British troops’.

They agreed operations in Kandahar and Helmand province were ‘proceeding well’.

Mr Cameron also briefed Gen Petraeus on the defence review to be announced next week.