§ Mr. Gowasked the Secretary of State for Defence how many officers and men left the Armed Forces of the Crown during the first four months of 1978; what were the equivalent figures for the first four months of 1977 and 1976; and whether he is satisfied with the present strength of the Armed Forces.
§ Mr. Mulley, pursuant to his reply [Official Report, 22nd May 1978; Vol. 950, c. 1325–6], gave the following information:
The number of officers and men who left the Services during the first four months of 1978 was 15,330. The equivalent figures for 1976 and 1977 were 14,735 and 14,699 respectively. The trained strength of all three Services continues to be generally in line with present requirements and I remain confident that the Services are able to meet their commitments.