"I'm stunned by the helicopter crash early this morning. It's a real tragedy and my thoughts are with the families.

"From images on TV, I realised how technological wars have become; how sophisticated the weaponry is and how slick the media operations are. What was also noticeable was the number of female correspondents, showing the increased role of women in war.

"The US coverage was very different, a bit like watching a Tom Cruise movie. But if that's how they boost morale, then so be it.

"I thought Tony Blair's speech was quite unpolished and not what we expect to see from him. Although he showed vulnerability, his courage and resolve still came to the fore. I believe we need to get behind the troops and give them our full support."