Role of Armed Forces Reservists to be reviewed

A review of the Reserve Forces to ensure that they continue providing a vital element of the UK Armed Forces capability has been announced today, Wednesday 19 March 2008.

The review – which will begin on 1 April 2008 - will look at how Reservists from across the three Services have been employed on current operations and their potential use in other roles.

It will consider the scope for greater integration into the Regular Forces and how to capitalise on the civilian skills our Reservists possess.

Chief of the Defence Staff, Sir Jock Stirrup, said:

"The Service Chiefs and I welcome the review of the Reserve Forces announced today.

"Our Reserve Forces have a remarkable and proud record of achievement, and over the past few years in particular have made an invaluable contribution to our operations in the Balkans, Sierra Leone, Iraq, Afghanistan and elsewhere.

"They are, and will remain, an essential component of the United Kingdom’s Armed Forces. It is because they are so important that we want to make sure that the Reserves continue to contribute in the most effective way possible."

"Since January 2003 we have deployed around 17,000 reservists on operations.

"Their contribution has been of the first importance. The Service Chiefs and I are determined that this should remain the case."

Defence Secretary Des Browne, said:

"Reservists are a vital part in the defence of the UK. 2008 marks the 100th anniversary of the Territorial Army and it is a fitting time to look forward at how all our Reservists can continue to be a key component of the security of the UK."

The review will consult widely within the Defence community and beyond, including Reservists, their families and employers. The review has the full support of the Chiefs of Staff.

The review will be conducted by a team led by Major General Nick Cottam CB OBE and will conclude in the Autumn.

There are 42,630 Reservists, made up from 3,680 in the Naval and Royal Marine Reserves, 36,790 in the Territorial Army, and 2,160 in the Royal Auxiliary Air Force.