HC Deb 22 March 1999 vol 328 c11W
17. Mr. Viggers

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on staffing levels in the Defence Medical Services. [75981]

Mr. Doug Henderson

We have made improving the current serious manpower shortfalls in the Defence Medical Services a top priority. Following the Strategic Defence Review we have provided additional funds to address both personnel and equipment shortfalls in the Medical Services. We have put in place a number of initiatives to rectify the staffing situation, but recognise that restoration of full staffing will take some time.