Prince Harry to be deployed in Iraq, wants to be on front

London, Feb 23 (UNI) Prince Harry, the third in succession to the British throne, and his squadron from the ''Blues and Royals'' will be deployed in Iraq in May despite Prime Minister Tony Blair's announcement that 1,600 British troops will be withdrawn at that time.

The Prince, a Second Lt, will be leaving with 'A Squadron, of the Blues and Royals' as part of the next rotation of troops for Operation Telic.

However, no details are yet known about the Prince's responsibilities, but he is likely to serve with his squadron wherever it is deployed. This could mean being posted to Maysan province for reconnaissance along the border with Iran.

Prince Harry has already made his wishes clear that he wants to be with his squadron, not locked away in a staff job in a heavily protected base.

His commanding officer will, however, have a special responsibility to secure his safety. That will not mean surrounding him with bodyguards while on patrol, but he is expected to have a personal protection officer when required.

The deployment of 'A Squadron is expected to be announced today.

The present formation in southern Iraq, based around the 19th Light Brigade will be replaced by the 1st Mechanised Brigade and the total British presence will be cut from over 7,100 to about 5,500.

The regiments bound for Iraq in May will include the Irish Guards, the Royal Welsh Regiment and the Royal Green Jackets.

UNI