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The makes worrying reading for the Prime Minister.

It suggests that nearly two thirds of people think the war is unwinnable, and more than 40 per cent of those surveyed don't understand the British mission there.

And with the death toll amongst UK forces still rising, just how difficult a political issue is Afghanistan going to be for the Government?

There's no question that Iraq caused Labour problems in our part of the world at the last election.

The issue alienated many traditional supporters. Some stayed at home while others switched to the Liberal Democrats.

That was a factor which helped the Lib Dems surge close to Labour in seats in Newcastle and Durham - places which they'll hope to win this time.

Of course, that was an election which Labour looked certain to win, and so they could cope with some stayaway or switching voters.

This time the party is fighting for its life, and needs all its core vote and then some.

Of course, we don't know exactly how the conflict will pan out over the next few months.

Much will depend on whether the .

But you can be pretty sure there'll be more British deaths, and more talk of whether our services have enough equipment.

There'll also be , questioning the policies of the Government.

Domestic issues nearly always dominate elections, and they may very well this time.

But Afghanistan may yet have an influence on how people vote.

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