Already the Netherlands, Canada and Britain are beginning to question their missions and hint at either withdrawal or accommodation even with the more recalcitrant among the Taliban.

CENTERFORSECURITYPOLICY: Our long twilight struggle

Bishop Welby outlined exactly what that work in Africa had entailed - and then without a hint of embarrassment, ignored the second half of my question and moved seamlessly on to the next journalist.

BBC: Next archbishop Justin Welby 'humble but firm'