Written question asked by Bob Russell (Liberal Democrat) on Thursday, 26 February 2009, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 3 March 2009. It was answered by Lord Beamish (Labour) on Tuesday, 3 March 2009 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Veterans Advice Unit: Manpower

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many staff in his Department worked in the Veterans Advice Unit in each of the last five years for which figures are available; how many currently work in the Unit; and how many he estimates will work in the Unit in the next financial year.

Answer: The Veterans Advice Unit (VAU) was staffed by three service personnel from 1999 until 2002 providing veterans with dedicated information and advice. In 2002, its responsibilities were transferred to the Veterans Agency now the Service Personnel and Veterans Agency providing a fully integrated set of 'through life' personnel services to both service and ex-service personnel. It has a single point of access through its free helpline on 0800 169 2277 and website,"www.veterans-uk.info."The helpline employs a total of 26 staff (21 in whole-time equivalent posts) and its veterans advice team answering written inquiries employs four staff. Manning levels for the next financial year are not yet available.

Secondary information