HC Deb 02 December 1997 vol 302 cc174-5W
Mr. Cox

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many(a) men and (b) women are serving in the Territorial Army. [18168]

Dr Reid

As at 1 October 1997(a) 45,867 men and (b) 8,386 women were serving in the TA. The figures exclude 1,394 male and 11 female Non-Regular Permanent Staff (NRPS).

Ms Walley

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many Territorial Army officers there were in each of the last five years; what is the projected number for 1998; and if he will make a statement. [18364]

Dr. Reid

The number, or strength, of Territorial Army (TA) officers, as at 1 April in each of the last five years was as follows:

  • 1993: 7,272
  • 1994: 6,903
  • 1995: 6,459
  • 1996: 6,173
  • 1997: 6,131.

The officer establishment of TA officers planned for 1 April 1998 is 6,825, but the actual strength on that date will depend largely on recruitment and retention factors.

The Department is currently reviewing the future size and shape of the Regular and Reserve Forces as part of the on-going Strategic Defence Review.