HC Deb 09 June 2004 vol 422 cc415-6W
Mr. Gerald Howarth

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the RAF's future requirement for fast jet pilots. [176479]

Mr. Ingram

The future requirement for Royal Air Force manpower, including fast jet pilots, is kept under regular review to take account of various factors including changing commitments, Defence Planning Assumptions and the introduction of new aircraft types and equipment. The RAF's fast jet force remains an important part of the United Kingdom's military capability.