Written question asked by Lindsay Hoyle (Labour) on Monday, 15 October 2001, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 18 October 2001. It was answered by Lord Moonie (Labour) on Thursday, 18 October 2001 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what role the reserves will play in providing cover for full-time posts. - Includes figures.

Answer: Mr. Hoyle: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what role the reserves will play in providing cover for full-time posts. [8424] Dr. Moonie: Reservists are employed across the full range of duties with all the services, and play an important role in undertaking support tasks, helping alleviate shortfalls in regular manpower and bringing units up to operational manning levels. At present, there are almost 1,700 personnel on full-time reserve service. There are also over 500 reservists called out into permanent service under the Reserve Forces Act 1996 to support military operations. We expect to continue making use of the reserves in these ways.

Secondary information