FCO: UK role in Mali 'very limited'

The UK has agreed to help transport foreign troops and equipment to Mali amid French efforts to contain rebels.

France has attacked militants in Mali to support the Malian government, and has attempted to rescue a French hostage in Somalia, in recent days.

The UK is to provide two transport planes but No 10 stressed no UK troops would be deployed in a combat role.

Mark Simmonds, Foreign Office Minister with responsibility for Africa, spoke to the BBC to explain more about the "very limited" role the UK would play in supporting operations in Mali.