Defence Secretary Des Browne is expected to make a statement to the Commons today after the theft of a stolen military laptop computer containing the personal details of 600,000 people. News emerged on Friday of the theft more than a week ago.

LONDON - The government on Monday banned all British military service members from talking to the media in return for payment.

By Sam Marsden AN investigation was under way today into the case of a wounded Iraq veteran reportedly denied proper hospital care in a Birmingham hospital.

By DAVID STRINGER LONDON - Britain's Defense Secretary Des Browne on Monday announced the deployment of 1,400 extra troops to Afghanistan to tackle a threatened Taliban spring offensive, days after Tony Blair announced a major withdrawal from Iraq. The announcement will bring the total U.K.

Defence Secretary, Des Browne, will today outline his strategy on the future of British forces in Iraq, in a speech in London. He is expected to stress his determination that British troops will not remain in Iraq longer than is necessary.