400 more UK troops for Iraq

A total of 400 more troops are being sent to Iraq, the Ministry of Defence announced today.

It will take the British deployment to 8,500 at the end of the month.

The MoD said the additional soldiers were needed to help train the Iraqi security forces. The announcement will dash hopes of an early withdrawal of British troops.

Under the changes, 4 Armoured Brigade will be replaced by 12 Mechanised Brigade, while the 1st Battalion of Scots Guards will be replaced by the 1st Battalion Coldstream Guards.