Backing for campaign rises

Since the fall of Kabul, a growing number of Britons are again showing support for the military campaign in Afghanistan, an ICM poll reveals today.

More than 66 per cent surveyed for The Guardian approve of the campaign, showing a recovery from the sudden dip in enthusiasm three weeks ago.

However, public support for the use of carpet bombing and "daisy cutters" against the Taliban has faltered to a small majority of 51 per cent. Just over half of those surveyed believe the use of these deadly weapons is justified, the poll shows.

In the immediate aftermath of the 11 September attacks, public support for a military campaign stood at 74 per cent. But by the end of last month, it had dropped to about 62 per cent.

Britons remain realistic about the future, according to the survey, in which more than 1,000 people were interviewed last weekend. More than 80 per cent agree that the fighting will not be over by Christmas and expect it to last considerably longer. Only one in 10 believe the fighting could be over by the end of the year.

Only 47 per cent believe the hunt for chief terrorist suspect Osama bin Laden will be successful, while 44 per cent say he is more likely to escape.

Tony Blair is strongly supported in his claims that Britain should continue to play a leading role in creating the New World Order by its involvement with solving international conflicts. About 59 per cent support this idea.

The poll also reveals a difference in stance between men and women. While 62 per cent of men believe the use of carpet bombing and daisy cutters is justified, only 41 per cent of women agree.

The allied bombing campaign is not justified by events, according to 24 per cent of men and 34 per cent of women. A further split is found in attitudes towards military action in general. More than 75 per cent of men support the campaign, compared to only 56 per cent of women.

However, less than one in four women are completely opposed to the military action while just 12 per cent of men disapprove.

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