Defence Force seeks deadly cluster bombs

THE Australian Defence Force is acquiring cluster bombs, amid mounting domestic and overseas pressure to eliminate the weapons, which are blamed for thousands of civilian deaths.

The ADF's move comes at a time when the Federal Government is backing international moves to phase out the controversial weapons.

The Defence Force is also resisting legislation banning cluster bombs, now before the Senate, fearing it could leave Australian troops open to prosecution while serving with allies who have used the bombs in Iraq and Afghanistan.

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http://www.theage.com.au/news/national/defence-force-seeks-deadly-cluster-bombs/2007/05/19/1179497342315.html