"The reason that's happened is because of the uncertainty the government has created - that's why firms have put investment on hold, or scrapped it altogether, " said shadow energy and climate change secretary Caroline Flint.

BBC: Energy Bill to create 'low carbon economy', says Davey

However, there is a growing realisation in the US and UK that allies such as Germany, France and Italy are unlikely to offer significant numbers of extra combat forces, or change the nature of their missions, says the BBC's Caroline Wyatt in Krakow.

BBC: US faces fresh Afghan obstacles