§ Mr. Simon CoombsTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what assessment he has made of the need for redeployment measures in the light of his recent announcement of a reduction in Army personnel.
§ Mr. Archie HamiltonI assume that my hon. Friend's question relates to resettlement provision for those Army personnel who might be made redundant as a result of reductions in the strength of the Army. Those made redundant will have access to the same resettlement support as is provided to those leaving the services at the end of a normal engagement or commission. They will receive advice and counselling, and will also receive up to 28 days' training to equip them with new skills or assist them in transferring their existing skills to the civilian job market. In addition they will be able to obtain assistance with job finding from the Army Resettlement Employment Liaison Cell, or from the Officers Association or the Regular Forces Employment Association, both of which receive funding from the MOD.