British Troops In Afghanistan Given Just £1 Each To Celebrate Christmas

British troops in Afghanistan have reportedly only been given £1 a head for Christmas celebrations by penny-pinching defence chiefs.American soldiers have reportedly been sent 8 Christmas trees, turkeys, decorations and gifts – and have even organised a special screening of the new Star Wars film.

But 500 British troops in Afghanistan, the largest British deployment overseas, have been given a total of £500 for their Christmas celebrations – just £1 per person.

One British officer serving in Kabul told the Sunday Times: ‘The contrast between the American and British approach is staggering.


"As an army we don’t have as much money as the US, but even the Danish and Mongolians seem to be doing more."

Theresa May paid tribute to the forces in her Christmas message but the men and women on the ground have not seen her words translated into funds.

One soldier said: "They haven’t even sent us enough for a coffee. The Americans send in more money to feed the stray cats on their compound."