Women at war: should female soldiers serve in close combat?

As more countries agree to allow women to serve in combat roles, the issue remains divisive in the UK

UK female soldiers in Afghanistan
(Image credit: Matt Cardy/Getty)

The government is due to publish its findings on whether or not to allow women to serve in close combat in the coming weeks, even though strong opposition to the move remains.

Women are currently allowed to serve on the frontline providing medical care and carrying out bomb disposals, but are not permitted to serve in the infantry, the Royal Armoured Corps or the Household Cavalry where they would be involved in close combat.

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