The Brits pull back

(Independent) "Gordon Brown is preparing to announce the withdrawal of a substantial number of Britain's remaining troops in Iraq as soon as Parliament returns next week. Up to half the force of 5,500 could be on their way home in the next few months.....

Under a series of scenarios being drawn up by aides, between 2,000 and 3,000 troops would remain in Iraq into next year in an "overwatch" role...."