Tony Blair has condemned as "shocking and appalling" pictures of UK troops abusing Iraqis.

Speaking in the Commons yesterday, the prime minister insisted the military would "investigate fully" the evidence that had come to light and prosecute any soldier found guilty of wrongdoing.

Three soldiers are facing a court martial in the German city of Osnabruck over the claims, with two of the men pleading not guilty and one admitting to one charge of assault.

The Army has revealed that its legal advisers issued explicit orders to all commanders on the ground that Iraqis must not be assaulted while in custody.

Giving evidence in court, Lieutenant-Colonel Nick Mercer said the orders were issued after a number of complaints were received that the Army was disproportionate in its response to the looting.

"Once we moved into an occupation role from a battlefield, once the situation changed, allegations were made that Iraqis were not being treated as properly as they should be," he said.