Britain has controlled the southern province of Basra since the U.S.-led invasion of Iraq in 2003, but that has come to an end.
On Sunday, the British formally handed the reins over to Iraqi authorities. The moves marks the start of what Britain hopes will be a transition to a mission aimed at aiding the economy and providing jobs in the oil-rich region of Basra.
Basra was the last region in Iraq under the control of British forces
British military spokesman Maj. Mike Shearer talks with Liane Hansen about the timing of the move and the chances for stability in Basra.
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