HC Deb 11 March 1997 vol 292 c185W
26. Mr. Pawsey

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many front-line infantry there are currently; and what estimate he has made of the number required to fulfil the Army's existing responsibilities. [18060]

Mr. Soames

As at 1 February 1997, the strength of the front line infantry, including the Gurkhas and Royal Irish Regiment, general service, was 24,200 officers and soldiers against a corresponding establishment of 26,200.