§ Mr. Gerald HowarthTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what recent discussions he has had with front-line commanders about the effects of medical limitations on their ability to deploy troops with particular reference to manning levels in the Defence Medical Services. [53873]
§ Dr. MoonieThe provision of appropriate levels of medical support to British forces is an integral element of operational planning. I am briefed regularly on operational issues.
§ Mr. KeetchTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence when he will (a) complete and (b) publish the Medical Manning and Retention Review; which outside organisation and individuals he will consult in the preparation of the review; and if he will make a statement. [53800]
§ Dr. Moonie[holding answer 2 May 2002]: I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave him on 25 April 2002, Official Report, column 425W. The outcome of the review will be announced in due course. The review team includes an independent human resources consultant and we are also consulting the NHS, which is providing an adviser to the team, the Department of Health, the Office of Manpower Economics, the British Medical Association and the British Dental Association.