BRITAIN is preparing to send up to 600 more troops to Afghanistan to bolster the 7,800-strong force fighting the Taliban.
The deployment of an extra infantry battalion follows pressure from America for more troops in southern Afghanistan.
They will be sent out in May, when the new British force led by paratroopers replaces the 52 Infantry Brigade. It will be the first time all the elements of the Parachute Regiment have fought in one theatre at the same time.
Commanders of 16 Air Assault Brigade want the extra troops so they can increase reconstruction work. A final decision has been held up because the Ministry of Defence is pushing for the Foreign Office to take the lead on the rebuilding and to use private contractors as security guards. This would require fewer numbers to be sent.
The likelihood that 600 British troops will be sent to Kosovo increased last week when a senior British source in Pristina said he expected the local Nato commander to ask for reinforcements.
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UK investment will save Kabul, Letters, page 18