Hutton hints at Iraq withdrawal

The new Defence Secretary John Hutton has said that Britain's role in Iraq is likely to undergo a "fundamental change" early next year, hinting that the start of 2009 could see more British troops leave the country.

Speaking after talks with the Iraqi prime minister Nouri al-Maliki in Baghdad, Hutton said that Britain's military presence in Iraq is likely to be downgraded to a training role. The Defence Secretary also hailed the "significant progress" made in Iraq in recent months.

Talks are in place between Britain and the United States with Iraq over a new security deal to enable forces to stay in the country beyond the end of the year, when a current United Nations mandate runs out.

Prime Minister Gordon Brown has repeatedly refused to give a timetable for the withdrawal of the 4,100 British troops stationed in the country.