Cameron's tribute to Afghanistan helicopter crash servicemen

The prime minister has paid tribute to two Welshmen killed in a helicopter accident in Afghanistan last weekend.

David Cameron told MPs the death of Capt Tom Clarke from Cowbridge and reservist Lance Corporal Oliver Thomas from Brecon were "a reminder of the sacrifices" made in Afghanistan.

L/Cpl Thomas's death was raised by the MP Roger Williams, for whom he had worked as a researcher.

Mr Williams said he was "an outstanding young man".

'Ability and courage'

Speaking at prime minister's question time, Mr Cameron told MPs: "You are absolutely right to pay tribute to L/Cpl Oliver Thomas, it is a reminder of the sacrifices we have borne in Afghanistan. This looks as if it was a tragic accident but we will get to the bottom of what happened.

"But you are absolutely right to mention how our reservists in all three forces serve alongside their regular colleagues and take all of the risks and in Afghanistan, they have proved again and again they are people of huge quality, ability and courage.

"As we go forward and expand our reserves, I hope everyone in our country, particularly businesses, the public sector, local councils, and others including the civil service will do everything they can to make sure reservists are welcome in their businesses and supported in the vital work they do for our country."

Mr Williams, the MP for Brecon and Radnorshire, said L/Cpl Thomas was "an outstanding young man who was so well-liked and held in such high regard by everyone who knew him and worked with him".

Labour leader Ed Miliband also joined in tributes to the dead.

The two Welshmen were among five members of the army who died when the Lynx helicopter they were in crashed in Southern Afghanistan on Saturday.