§ Mr. Trotterasked the Secretary of State for Defence what factors other than cost were taken into account in deciding to reduce the trained strength committed to training by 10 per cent. by 1st April 1977; when the decision was taken; and when the first resulting cuts were made.
§ Dr. GilbertThe reduction of 10 per cent. in the trained naval strength committed to short training was designed both as an exercise in good housekeeping and as a contribution towards the overall reduction in the strength of the Royal Navy. None of these reductions will affect basic training or training associated with fighting efficiency or with safety at sea. The decision was taken, after full consultation with the training authorities concerned, at the beginning of this year and a start has already been made on the first reductions.