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http://www.news.com.au/story/0,23599,21651121-401,00.htmlPrince Harry off to Iraq after all From correspondents in London
May 01, 2007 04:00am
Article from: Agence France-PresseFont size: + -
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Deployment may still be reversed
Wide consultation over decision
First royal since Andrew to see active service
PRINCE Harry would deploy to Iraq, the head of the British army said overnight, after speculation that he may not go because of fears he could be targeted by insurgents.
But General Sir Richard Dannatt also said he could yet change his mind, if circumstances change.
“I have taken the decision as chief of general staff. It's my decision as chief of general staff. I have full command of everyone in the army, including Prince Harry,” he said.
“The decision has been taken by myself that he (Harry) will deploy with his regiment in due course.”
Gen. Dannatt said the decision had been taken after the “widest possible consultation”.
“I will of course keep that decision continually under review and if circumstances are such that I change that decision, I will make a further statement,” he told Sky News.
Speculation has been rife about Harry's deployment with the Blues and Royals regiment since the decision was announced in February. The regiment was expected to begin its six-month tour of duty in May.
British media have said the second lieutenant - or Cornet Wales as he is known in the Blues and Royals - could be pulled from the front line because of the threat of kidnap or death and his presence could put comrades in danger.
Any decision to pull him out is likely to infuriate the third-in-line to the throne, who has said there was “no way” he would train to become an officer, then sit around while his soldiers fought.
Harry, 22, is responsible for 11 soldiers and four Scimitar reconnaissance vehicles.
An unnamed Household Cavalary regiment source told the domestic Press Association news agency last week that Harry would resign if he is not allowed to go.
April has been one of the deadliest months for British forces in Iraq since the US-led invasion of March 2003. To date 12 lives have been lost, including a corporal doing Harry's armoured reconnaissance troop leader job.
Harry would become the first British royal to see active service since his uncle Prince Andrew flew helicopters in the 1982 Falklands War with Argentina.
Finally a true Prince who is leading his men at war send signals to deserters and war opponents that real men do not question order from above.