Soldiers cleared over Iraq abuse

A court martial has cleared two UK soldiers of failing to ensure their men did not abuse Iraqi civilians in Basra, leading to the death of one of them.Maj Michael Peebles and Warrant Officer Mark Davies had denied charges of negligently performing their duties.

Four of their colleagues, including commanding officer Col Jorge Mendonca, had previously been cleared at the hearing in Bulford, Wiltshire.

Cpl Donald Payne has pleaded guilty to a charge of inhumane treatment.