Britain took command of Nato peacekeeping forces in Afghanistan yesterday in what is widely seen as a key test for the future of the military organisation. The new British commander, Lieutenant General David Richards – who took over command of the Nato-led International Security Assistance Force from an Italian general – said Nato would focus on providing security for the fledgling Afghan government to boost reconstruction and economic growth in the south. He said Nato forces would not shy away from “the robust use of force” to defeat Taliban insurgents where it was called for. “I have the forces, the rules of engagement and a caveat-free environment to do everything that I need,” he told a news conference. Full Story