20 Sep 2011

Inquiry into soldier drug-taking allegations continues

1:01 pm on 20 September 2011

The Australian Defence Force is still waiting on the outcome of an investigation into its soldiers' alleged drug taking in New Zealand and says it won't decide on any disciplinary action until it has that result.

Last week, the Australian Defence Force confirmed the soldiers were assisting New Zealand Military Police in relation to the alleged drug taking at Linton Military Camp, near Palmerston North.

The soldiers were taking part in a military exchange programme.

The New Zealand Defence Force says the substance the soldiers are alleged to have been smoking is being tested.

The Australian Defence Force says the three soldiers were escorted back to Australia on Saturday.

It says it is inappropriate to comment further while the matter is under investigation.