<p><br /> The Government has defended a failed rescue mission in Afghanistan during which a British hostage was murdered by her rebel captors.<br /> </p><p><br /> Prime Minister David Cameron said it was "right to try" to secure the release of Linda Norgrove, a 36-year-old aid worker from Scotland.<br /> </p><p><br /> General David Petraeus, the top Nato and US commander in Afghanistan, added that troops did "everything in their power" to save a woman colleagues described as an "inspiration".<br /> </p><p><br /> Ms Norgrove was seized by militants in Kunar province on September 26.<br /> </p><p><br /> Three Afghan nationals also taken by the insurgents were later released, but Ms Norgrove continued to be held amid growing concern.<br /> </p><p><br /> After a tip off revealed her whereabouts, US troops in the eastern province were sent in last night.<br /> </p><p><br /> During the fighting seven insurgents were shot dead, it is believed. But Ms Norgrove was killed by her captors before she could be secured and led to safety.<br /> </p><p><br /> Authorities in the US and the UK stressed that insurgent captors alone were responsible for the death.<br /> </p>
