The head of the Army has voiced concern about poor morale among troops, saying they feel devalued and are suffering from Iraq fatigue.

General Sir Richard Dannatt's comments, contained in a leaked report, followed an internal survey of all ranks of the Army.

In his Staff Briefing Team Report for 2007, he said the "military covenant is clearly out of kilter" and called for troops to be allowed more time between jobs.

The report catalogues disquiet about a wide range of issues, including poor housing in the UK, bad food, cancelled leave and lower levels of fitness.

A spokesman for the Ministry of Defence stressed the report represented the unedited views of individual soldiers which were not necessarily widely representative.

He added: "The feedback given by lower ranks in the Army helps the Chief of the General Staff to stay firmly in touch with life across the Army and this helps to guide in him his discussions with the chain of command and in his decision making process."

The disclosure of General Dannatt's views followed claims that a leading Army figure had quit over the "appalling" and "shoddy" treatment of troops.

Lt Col Stuart Tootal, commanding officer of 3 Para, apparently wrote a resignation letter condemning soldiers' poor pay, lack of equipment, standard of Army housing, and NHS treatment.

General Dannatt said in a statement on Saturday night: "The military covenant is not broken, but more needs to be done.

"In response to our concerns we have had some welcome news this year on medical treatment, equipment, pay and improvements in accommodation."

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