More Kiwi troops for East Timor

The cabinet is today expected to approve a fourth deployment of troops to East Timor - and it is unlikely to be the last.

The new rotation will go to the former Indonesia-controlled territory next May, with the six-month deployment covering the period scheduled for elections which will lead to full independence.

The contingent at present in Timor - 470 Regular Force staff and 100 Territorials - began their six-month deployment last month.

Meanwhile, the cabinet is still working on a pay increase for lower ranks in the armed forces, but no announcement is expected today or after next week's meeting, the last before Christmas.

Herald Online feature: Timor mission

UN Transitional Administration in E Timor