Oral question asked in the House of Commons, by David Leslie Taylor (Labour). It was answered on Monday, 23 January 2006 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Iraq (Reservists)

Question: The bravery, determination and tenacity of the reservists in Iraq is second to none and of course comparable with that of the regular forces, but from time to time coverage in the regional press suggests that morale is not all it could be among reservists who are deployed in Iraq. That is a major factor in terms of recruitment and retention. Can the Secretary of State say a little about that concern?

Answer: Morale is actually very good among our armed forces. On Friday, for example, I was at Headley Court to see some of our very brave servicemen who had been seriously injured in Iraq and elsewhere. I said then to the press, although my comments were not widely reported, that I never cease to be astounded and indeed bowled over by the courage, determination and endurance of our soldiers even after very serious injuries. I also said that I wished that some of the critics of our interventions abroad could show the same commitment to this country and the optimism to see things through as our servicemen and women.

Secondary information

Type: Oral question
Reference: 441 c1157
Session: 2005-06
Oral question type: Supplementary
Chamber / Committee: House of Commons chamber
Subjects: Iraq Peacekeeping operations Reserve forces Army Air force Staff Marines
Link: View this Oral question on www.publications.parliament.uk