John Healey

John Healey

Labour — Rawmarsh and Conisbrough

Speaking in the House of Commons on 1 June 2026

Debate

Armed Forces Recruitment and Retention

Contribution

I simply do not recognise the right hon. Gentleman’s description. The discussions that I, the Minister for the Armed Forces and military leaders have had with the regimental associations have dealt with their concerns, in particular with the Northern Ireland Troubles Bill. We are set to make significant amendments that reflect their concerns. On the position that he describes regarding recruitment and retention, there is no shortage of volunteers for training, and the proportion of those applying to the Paras rose by a quarter in the last year.

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