With British troops waiting to go to war, scientists at a top secret germ warfare centre in Wiltshire are working flat out on projects that could save soldiers' lives if they are attacked by chemical and biological weapons.

No-one at the Porton Down centre will say exactly what the work involves but it is aimed at protecting soldiers if Saddam Hussein does retaliate with weapons of mass destruction should troops invade Iraq.

"I can say there are a lot more hours being worked at Porton Down," said an unnamed spokeswoman.

"But in view of the circumstances obviously we cannot say exactly what is involved."

She did, however, confirm that scientists are working on a new plasma coating that can be sprayed onto battle dresses worn by soldiers which will protect them from chemical and biological agents, but it is still at an early development stage and will not be ready in time for any Gulf War.

The plasma can be applied to practically any material to form a coating that is liquid repellent.

The plasma will cover fibres rather than form a barrier sheet over the top which means the material retains its original bulk qualities and will not stiffen and impede the movement of people wearing it.

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