§ Dr. David ClarkTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what actions he has taken to improve his Department's recruitment for the British Army. [4354]
§ Mr. SoamesWe are conducting a vigorous campaign to increase recruiting to the British Army and plan to spend an additional £5 million on recruit advertising in this financial year. We are also reviewing the planned number and location of Army careers offices to take account of the need for increased recruiting. These 241W recruiting initiatives are matched by additional retention incentives to encourage soldiers to stay longer in the Army. We are also considering other ideas for recruitment to the armed forces.