§ Mr. Stokesasked the Secretary of State for Defence if he can give an estimate of the effect that the proposed reductions in men and equipment will have upon recruitment for the forces and upon careers for those in the forces.
§ Mr. William RodgersThe effect on recruitment cannot be predicted at this stage, but potential recruits, either as officers or as Service men, should not be discouraged from joining the Services. As my right hon. Friend made clear in his statement on 3rd December, the Services will continue to offer a wide range of fine career opportunities in the years ahead.