The government has announced an immediate total ban on the use of landmines by British troops.
BBC Defence Correspondent Mark Laity: "Early ban will be widely welcomed"
Defence Secretary George Robertson, in a Commons written reply, said instructions to that effect had been issued to all headquarters and training establishments.
The announcement ends an exemption which would have allowed the use of landmines in "exceptional circumstances".
"We intend this to be an international example to others," Mr Robertson said.
Tribute to Diana
The move means the ban is in place in good time for the anniversary next month of the death of Diana, Princess of Wales, who played a major role in the campaign to outlaw the weapons under the Ottawa convention.