British troops to get special Christmas message
The Queen has recorded a special Christmas message for British troops, Buckingham Palace has announced.
Troops based in Iraq and elsewhere around the world will be able to tune in to hear the festive address on British Forces Radio.
It is believed to the be the first time in her reign that the Queen has decided to record a separate message for the Armed Forces.
Her Majesty’s message for the troops comes in addition to the traditional speech that will be aired at 15:00 GMT on Christmas Day.
This year’s Queen’s speech is expected to focus on the theme of “tolerance and respect in a changing world”.
The message will be broadcast on television and on the internet, with the text available on the Royal website.
This year has seen British soldiers engaged in some intense fighting in Iraq, where around 9,000 troops are supporting the US-led coalition.
With elections due to take place in January it is likely that the security situation will remain delicate.
The Government has not ruled out sending more troops to the region next year.
