Armed Forces Recruitment 2022-11-07
2022-11-07
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP noted the importance of armed forces personnel due to ongoing conflicts globally. He highlighted North Norfolk's rich military history, with many veterans in his constituency concerned about the issue.
My constituency has a proud military history, but in the past 22 years, only six years have seen more inflow than outflow of personnel into UK regular forces. Can my right hon. Friend assure me that for the armed forces, retention is as important as recruitment?
Retention and recruitment are both crucial; not recruiting is bad, but recruiting without retaining is worse. Defence recognises the need for improvement in retention rates for regulars and reserves, with measures being implemented and a review expected in spring to incentivise retention.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific actions or figures related to retention improvements were not provided beyond mentioning ongoing measures and an upcoming review.
Under Review
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP highlighted the importance of armed forces in light of global conflicts and his constituency's military heritage.
With war on the continent, our armed forces are crucial. North Norfolk has a proud military history with many veterans concerned about this issue. Can my right hon. Friend assure me that for the armed forces, retention is as important as recruitment?
Retention and recruitment are both crucial; not recruiting is bad, but recruiting without retaining is worse. Defence recognises the need for improvement in retention rates for regulars and reserves, with measures being implemented and a review expected in spring to incentivise retention.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific actions or figures related to retention improvements were not provided beyond mentioning ongoing measures and an upcoming review.
Under Review
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP raised concerns about an instructor at the Army Foundation College charged with multiple offences, including sexual assaults against 16-year-old girls.
Young recruits attend the Army Foundation College. There have been concerning reports about an instructor being charged for over 20 offences, including five sexual assaults on 16-year-olds. How will these young recruits be properly safeguarded at the college?
The matter is under review, and I cannot comment much further than that. I hope this satisfies the hon. Lady.
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Assessment & feedback
No specific details or actions were provided regarding safeguarding measures for young recruits.
Under Review
Response accuracy