Morning:
10°c
Thousands of troops home from Iraq next year
Nicholas Cecil, Chief Political Correspondent7 Nov 2008
THOUSANDS of British troops will be withdrawn from Iraq next year, a Cabinet minister said today.
International Development Secretary Douglas Alexander firmed up earlier proposals for a fundamental shift in the mission in Iraq early next year. Mr Alexander, who is visiting Basra, told Sky News: "We'll continue to work closely with the government of Iraq but we will see a significant drawdown of British troops as a recognition of the progress and success that's been enjoyed here in Basra. We are looking ahead to the first half of 2009 but our focus at the moment is securing the possibility that I've seen today which is for further jobs, further investment, further prosperity." The TV channel also reported that the withdrawal of the 4,000 troops would start in April and that the majority would be out by the middle of next year.
Talks are ongoing between Britain, America and Baghdad about a pull-out.
Reader views (3)
Assuming of course,they survive the coming months of this pointless war.
- Steve, London, 10/11/2008 09:28
Report abuse
I'll believe this when I see it. Alexander's mouth was moving, so there was hardly likely to be much in the way of truth in the air; he is, after all, a NuLiebour man through and through.
My guess is that this is a multilple re-announcement of previously announced troop withdrawals.
- Keith Lonsdale, Doncaster, 10/11/2008 02:00
Report abuse
Yes probably to then be sent to Afghanistan or the Congo! Let's bring back National Service and send some of the gutless yobs that roam our streets that we seem to breed so prolificly in this once great country!
- Sue, Orpington, Kent, 07/11/2008 13:38
Report abuse
