Three British soldiers have been killed in an attack in Iraq.
The incident comes just days after the Black Watch was controversially sent out of the British zone of control in the south of Iraq in support of US forces.
In an emergency statement, the British Defence Minister Mr Adam Ingram said: "We have received reports of a serious incident in Iraq.
"Members will appreciate it is often difficult to immediately establish a clear picture of events and precise details of what has happened.
"But I very much regret I can confirm to the House that in an attack on British forces in the Black Watch area of operations we have suffered a number of casualties including three fatalities.
"The process of informing their next of kin is under way and Members will accept that should take place before we release details.
"What I can say is that US forces helped to provide urgent medical support at the scene of the incident - something for which I know our forces were grateful.
"I know I speak for the whole House when I say our thoughts are with our soldiers and their loved ones."