HC Deb 21 July 1997 vol 298 cc400-1W
Mr. Hancock

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many payments he has made to employers following call-out or recall of reserves in the last year for which figures are available. [9417]

Mr. Spellar

Provisions for making payments to the employers of reservists were introduced under regulations which came into force on 1 April this year. Since then, 10 payments have been made to employers, and a further 12 are being processed. Up to 16 July, claims had been agreed for some £7,000. Further claims amounting to some £14,000 are being considered.

Mr. Hancock

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what is the current strength of the reserve forces by type. [9418]

Mr. Spellar

The most recent complete figures are for 1 April 1997. These are as follows:

Strength of reserve forces at 1 April 1997
Number
Royal Fleet Reserve 8,900
Royal Naval Reserve 2,700
Royal Marines Reserve 900
Army Reserve 190,100
Territorial Army 57,600
Air Force Reserve 45,300
Royal Auxiliary Air Force 1,400