Commons Sense

House of Commons · Written Ministerial Statement

Armed Forces Update

19 March 2020 · Ministry of Defence

Proposed by James Heappey Con Wells

Defence

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

View on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Key points

  • A new order under the Reserve Forces Act 1996 enables Reservists to support HM Forces during the COVID-19 outbreak
  • The order permits calling Reservists into permanent service to assist with Defence outputs and support contingency plans
  • The order is effective immediately and will remain in place for 12 months from its date of making

Issue summary

A new order has been made under the Reserve Forces Act 1996 to enable Reservists to support HM Forces in response to the COVID-19 outbreak.

Action requested

The order allows for Reservists to be called into permanent service to assist with Defence outputs and support contingency plans developed by Other Government Departments, effective immediately until 12 months from its date of making.

Key facts

  • A new order has been made under section 56(1B) of the Reserve Forces Act 1996.
  • Reservists will be on standby to deliver Defence outputs such as reinforcing Regular sub-units, liaison officer roles, and providing specialist skills.
  • The order shall cease to have effect 12 months from the date it is made.
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