§ Mr. Ashleyasked the Secretary of State for Defence what was the approximate number of people in the armed forces during 1982; and how many of them took part in military action during the year.
§ Mr. BlakerThe average total strength of the Regular Forces, the Ulster Defence Regiment and locally engaged330W personnel in 1982 was about 342,100. Although precise figures are not available, it is estimated that some 70,000 were engaged in operational duties.