The widow of Shipley soldier Sergeant Steve Roberts said today she is "confident" that the investigation into his death is being carried out adequately.

Samantha Roberts was responding to reports that new evidence had emerged suggesting attempts had been made to block the investigation into her husband's death.

Scotland Yard is currently investigating the death of 33-year-old Sgt Roberts, who was the first British soldier to die in combat in the Iraq war when he was killed in 'friendly fire' trying to quell a riot in March 2003. The investigation was ordered by the Attorney General, Lord Goldsmith, following an MoD inquiry.

Criticism of the way the army handled the case of Sergeant Roberts was revealed in London's appeal court this week in letters from Lord Goldsmith to Geoff Hoon, defence secretary at the time.

Lord Goldsmith was reported as having said that there was evidence which could be taken to show an attempt by the chain of command to influence and prevent an investigation into Sgt Robert's death.

But his widow Samantha, 34, of Shipley, said: "I don't feel the MoD were intentionally trying to cover anything up. I feel it's the nature of the beast and it's been like that for such a long time they feel next of kin and family do not need to know certain information.

"But they are bringing about changes and are starting to see family have a right to know and are not a security risk.

For so many years I feel they have dealt with a cloak and dagger institution and no-one knows what's going on. It's part of the culture.

"I really do not think it's anything sinister.

"The whole fact it's a civilian investigation and the Metropolitan police are involved instils confidence.

"I feel confident they are doing an adequate job." Sergeant Roberts, a Desert Rats tank commander with the 2nd Tank Regiment, was shot in the chest during a riot in Al Zubayr, near Basra, just three days after the conflict began.

A MoD spokesman said she was unable to comment on an individual case.

She added: "The attorney general and the MoD have confidence in the military criminal system but none of us are complacent.

"The armed services cannot be or be seen to be above the law and we are determined to maintain the integrity of the system to ensure justice is done."