§ 13. Mr. ButlerTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on anticipated levels of recruitment to the services over the next three years.
§ Mr. Archie HamiltonLevels of recruitment over the next three years will be affected by a range of factors, including the success of the measures being taken to improve the retention of trained service personnel.
§ Mr. ButlerWhat measures does my hon. Friend propose to increase the prospects of recruitment?
§ Mr. HamiltonWe have already considerably enhanced the advertising budget, which has increased enormously. We are trying to attract ethnic minorities and greater opportunities have been found for women in two of the services. A decision will be taken shortly on the Royal Navy.