HC Deb 01 March 1971 vol 812 cc356-7W
Mr. Dalyell

asked the Minister of State for Defence if he intends to maintain the existing numbers of men in the Services, regardless of operational requirements; and if he will make a statement explaining how Her Majesty's Government will resist a situation where the Services apprehensively wait to see in the White Paper where the next axe will fall.

Mr. Ian Gilmour

As the Statement on Defence Estimates 1971 (Cmnd.4592) explained, the Government have provided a stable basis for defence planning. They intend to maintain the strength of the Forces at the level which the plans require.

Mr. Dalyell

asked the Minister of State for Defence what detailed steps he is taking to reinforce the confidence of the Armed Services; and if he will make a statement.

Lord Balniel

The Government's announced defence policies give the Armed Forces an assurance of stability and steady progress, essential to the restoration of their confidence.