HL Deb 15 February 2000 vol 609 cc138-9WA
Lord Bruce of Donington

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they have any plans to alter the current status of Queen Alexandra's Royal Naval Nursing Service (QARNNS) and, if so, how this will affect personnel serving within QARNNS. [HL1049]

Baroness Symons of Vernham Dean

Following a comprehensive review, the Queen Alexandra's Royal Nursing Sevice (QARNNS) will be incorporated into the Royal Navy (RN) from 1 April 2000 as the Service's specialised nursing branch. QARNNS is currently a separate Service within the Naval Service.

This will bring the status of QARNNS into line with that of the Army and RAF. It will also mean that QARNNS personnel commissioned or engaged into the RN from 1 April 2000 will be available for reserve service once they leave the RN. QARNNS ratings currently have no liability for reserve service.

The terms and conditions of service of existing QARNNS personnel will be unaffected by this change.