The MoD is reported to be resisting pressure from the Pentagon to move some of its troops to Baghdad.

The Americans want British forces to share peace-keeping duties in some of the most violent regions of Iraq.

The moves are the consequence of the imminent Spanish withdrawal from Najaf.

Sources have also told the Guardian that the US military may formally request that British forces undertake "hearts and minds" operations in Baghdad.

The Tories have written to Tony Blair demanding urgent clarification on the matter.

The Independent claims 1,700 extra UK troops could be deployed.