§ Lord Vivianasked Her Majesty's Government:
What were the tests carried out for the possible employment of women in armoured regiments and infantry battalions; how many women started these tests; how many completed these tests; on what the tests were based; and how they were analysed. [HL1795]
§ Baroness Symons of Vernham DeanOn announcing the extension to 70 per cent of Army posts open to women, the previous Secretary of State for Defence, Lord Robertson, also commissioned an investigation as to whether employment opportunities for women in the Armed Forces could be expanded still further. The Army initially led on this investigation, carrying out a study on behalf of all three Services into the effect of gender upon combat effectiveness. A report is due to be presented to Ministers later this year. I will write to the noble Lord when the way forward has been decided, and place a copy of my letter in the Library of the House.