HC Deb 27 March 1981 vol 1 cc447-8W
Mr. Trippier

asked the Secretary of State for Defence how recruiting in the Royal Marines compares with that in other major services.

Mr. Speed

Although there remain shortages in some areas, recruiting for all three Services is in general going well. In the case of the Royal Marines we expect to meet our requirement in full for 1980–81.

Mr. Trippier

asked the Secretary of State for Defence how many Royal Marines leave the Service before their initial training is completed.

Mr. Speed

In recent years the wastage of Royal Marine other rank recruits undergoing training, both voluntary and because of medical or course failure, has been running at some 40 to 50 per cent. The equivalent figure for officer recruits is about 35 per cent.

These figures reflect in part the very high standards set by the Royal Marines. However, a number of changes are in hand aimed at improving retention.

Mr. Trippier

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what are the numbers of Service men in the Royal Marines now; and what were the numbers in May 1979.

Mr. Speed

The current trained strength of the Royal Marines is 548 officers and 6,206 other ranks. The trained strength in May 1979 was 518 and 5,958 respectively.