"The Dutch government feels it is of utmost importance to help secure the safety, stability and recovery of Iraq," Prime Minister Jan Peter Balkenende said.

The unit comprised of a battalion of marines, a battalion of military engineers, a field hospital, military police and three manned Chinook transport helicopters that will be part of the US-led stabilisation force in Iraq.

The Dutch soldiers will be under British command but the Dutch authorities stressed that the unit will not be part of the forces occupying Iraq.

The plan will still have to pass through parliament before the troops can leave for Iraq. The governing parties have a majority in parliament so the proposal is not expected to be voted down.

During the war in Iraq the Netherlands pledged its political support to the US led troops but did not provide material support, or troops, to the coalition.

WAR.WIRE