Britain to keep 200 marines on standby in Mid-East

The British Government has announced that it will keep many of its ships and troops on standby in the Middle East for participation in the US-British war against Afghanistan.

Adam Ingram, the Armed Forces Minister, said 200 marines will be stationed in the region, while a further 400 marines will return to Britain, but remain in a state of "high readiness".

The marines remaining in the region will be on board the HMS Fearless, while the HMS Illustrious aircraft carrier will also remain in the area.

The destroyer HMS Southampton and the frigate HMS Cornwall were also named as part of the group, as were the auxiliary vessels Rosalie, Percival, Bramble, Tristram, Victoria, Diligence and Bayleaf.