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Britain lifts ban on women in combat army roles

LONDON — Britain is lifting a ban on women serving in front-line combat roles in the army, Prime Minister David Cameron announced on Friday (July 8).

British Prime Minister David Cameron with soldiers from the Royal Welsh Infantry in 2015. AFP file photo

British Prime Minister David Cameron with soldiers from the Royal Welsh Infantry in 2015. AFP file photo

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LONDON — Britain is lifting a ban on women serving in front-line combat roles in the army, Prime Minister David Cameron announced on Friday (July 8).

Mr Cameron, who is attending a NATO conference in Warsaw, Poland, said he had accepted a recommendation from the head of the Army, General Nick Carter, that women should be allowed to serve in ground close-combat roles.

He said the decision would be implemented “as soon as possible”.

“It is vital that our armed forces are world-class and reflect the society we live in,” Mr Cameron said in a statement. “Lifting this ban is a major step. It will ensure the armed forces can make the most of all their talent and increase opportunities for women to serve in the full range of roles.”

Until now British women have been able to serve as fighter pilots, sailors and submariners but not in infantry or armoured corps units, whose primary role is close-quarters combat.

In 2014 the defence ministry ordered an 18-month review of the physical demands of combat and combat training to make sure female soldiers will not suffer long-term detrimental effects to their health.

Countries including the US, Canada, Australia and Israel already allow women in combat roles. AP

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