HC Deb 08 January 2001 vol 360 cc351-2W
Ms Walley

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will include in army discharge papers details of contacts and functions of regimental associations. [144052]

Mr. Spellar

The system of regiments and related regimental associations is unique to the army. Men and women serving in the Royal Navy, Royal Marines and Royal Air Force can expect to serve in more than one unit, ship or squadron and their associations therefore tend to be Service-wide. In all three Services, however, details of the relevant associations and their functions are included in discharge papers. Arrangements for obtaining contact details are also provided.

Ms Walley

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will advise members of the armed forces who choose not to extend their service of details of the functions of regimental associations and how to join; and if he will make a statement. [144053]

Mr. Spellar

Although each Service has its own discharge procedures, each ensures that its personnel are informed of the existence and role of appropriate regimental, single-Service or tri-Service associations that can be joined.