§ Mr. Russell BrownTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence whether members of the reserve forces will continue to support operations as part of the campaign against international terrorism; and if he will make a statement. [76115]
§ Dr. MoonieWith the expiry of the call-out order made last October, a new order has been made to enable reservists to continue to be called out into service to support military operations in Afghanistan and related operations arising as part of the campaign against international terrorism. The new order is effective until 30 September 2003. Over 500 reservists were called out under the order made last October, of whom over half were called out compulsorily. The reservists are providing an invaluable contribution to the operations and we are most grateful for their continuing commitment and their employers' support.