Tony Blair has said Britain stands "willing" to lead a UN peace-keeping mission in Afghanistan.

The move came as the US secretary of state, Colin Powell, held talks with the prime minister in Number 10.

"Once the military campaign has achieved its main objectives - and we are certainly in the course of doing that now - then it is important that we maintain the humanitarian and political track. We have indicated in principle that we are willing to play a leading role in any UN-mandated force to provide stability in Afghanistan," Blair said.

Germany is ready to contribute 1000 troops to the UN peace-keeping force.