HC Deb 24 January 2000 vol 343 c54W
28. Mr. Hopkins

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will review the restrictions on posts available to women in the armed forces. [104563]

Mr. Spellar

Women cannot currently serve in the Royal Marines General Service, cap-badged posts in the Infantry and Royal Armoured Corps (including the Household Cavalry) and the RAF Regiment on the grounds of combat effectiveness. The Army is currently conducting a study into the effects of gender upon combat effectiveness that is due to report to Ministers in 2001.

Additionally in the Royal Navy women cannot serve in submarines or as mine clearance divers for medical reasons. The position will be kept under review.