UK may transfer Basra 'in spring'

The UK has 'confidence' it may be able to hand Basra's security to Iraqi forces 'at some point next spring', the UK's Foreign Secretary has said.

Margaret Beckett told MPs Iraq's fate was 'hanging in the balance' and said it was necessary 'to hold our nerve'.

'The progress of our current operation in Basra gives us confidence we may be able to achieve transition in that province... at some point next spring.'

The Foreign Office said this did not mean all UK troops would be leaving. The UK has 7,200 troops in the south of Iraq, mostly stationed in and around Basra.