John Baron MP says questions remain despite Defence Reform Bill defeat

MP will continue to press Government over its Army Reserve reforms

Today the Defence Reform Bill, which is essential to Government plans to replace 20,000 Regulars with 30,000 Reservists, was voted upon in Parliament. John tabled New Clause 3, which would have postponed the implementation of the Reservist reforms until Parliament had passed a report analysing their viability and cost-effectiveness. The amendment was supported by Labour, the Nationalists and a number of Conservatives. However, the vote was defeated 252-306.

John said,

“I am disappointed with the defeat. But the Government can be in no doubt of the strength of concern about its Reserve reforms. Questions as to their viability and cost-effectiveness remain.”

“Poor TA and Reserve recruitment numbers, a widening capability gap, rising costs leading to false economies, are all concerns which will not go away. I will continue to press the Government over these plans.”

“Whilst the Government conceded an independent annual report, Parliament itself will not be able to hold binding votes upon its conclusions. There are few ‘teeth’ to the proposal.”