US Senate to vote on gay military policy

The US Senate is to vote this week on the repeal of the don't ask, don't tell policy that prevents openly gay people from serving in the military.



Under the policy, gay people can serve but face expulsion if they reveal their sexuality.



US President Barack Obama has promised to repeal the policy.



However, opponents say a repeal could lessen morale in the armed forces.



Sixty senate votes are needed to proceed to a debate on the bill.



Senators Olympia Snow and Susan Collins, both of Maine, have yet to reveal their voting intentions and their votes may be necessary to avoid opponents using procedural delaying tactics.



The Obama administration has said any repeal of the law would not be implemented until after the Pentagon completed a review of its impact on the armed forces.