§ Mr. Biggs-Davisonasked the Secretary of State for Defence to what factors he attributes the fall in the part-time strength of the Ulster Defence Regiment; and what is his policy for future part-time recruitment.
§ Mr. HayhoeThe reduced numbers of the part-time element of the UDR result from the continuing improvement in the security situation in Northern Ireland and the growth of the full-time element, many of whom were recruited from former part-timers; taking the two elements together, this year has seen a rise in the overall size of the regiment.
Our policy for the future remains what it always has been: to invite all men of suitable character and ability who wish to contribute to security in the Province to apply to join the UDR.