Soldiers from Essex are amongst those to be sent to the Gulf, Defence Secretary Geoff Hoon has announced.
Mr Hoon told the House of Commons that up to 30,000 troops will be mobilised.
The land-based forces will include 16 Air Assault Brigade from Colchester Garrison in Essex.
Although the statement has been interpreted by some as further preparation for a possible ground war with Iraq, Mr Hoon added that war was not inevitable.
The troops will be stationed in Kuwait by the middle of next month.
Shadow defence spokesman and north Essex MP Bernard Jenkin gave unqualified backing to the move.
Published Monday, January 20, 2003
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