RAF aircraft have struck 37 targets in Iraq as part of Britain's attempts to weaken Islamic State (IS), the Defence Secretary has said.

Michael Fallon told the Commons around 139 missions have been flown by the RAF since MPs approved airstrikes against IS in Iraq in September.

He also faced suggestions that what Britain is doing is either "not necessary or not enough" if it wants to destroy IS unless there is wider political engagement by the Baghdad government.

The extremists, also known as Isil, control large swathes of Iraq and neighbouring Syria.

At defence question time, Mr Fallon told MPs: "Since Parliament authorised military action in support of combat operations the Royal Air Force have flown some 139 missions, gathering intelligence and striking some 37 targets.

"We are already providing training and equipment to Kurdish forces and preparing to provide further infantry, combat first aid, sharp shooting and counter improvised explosive device training."

Conservative James Gray asked Mr Fallon: "Will you agree with me that if our policy aim is the successful containment of Isil then we are indeed making a fantastic contribution?

"But if our aim is the destruction or degradation of Isil, which I think we were originally told it was, that will only occur if we have significant political engagement by the Baghdad government."