Oral QuestionMinistry of Defence

What steps he is taking to increase the number of cadets.

Tabled: 2 September 2025Answered: 8 September 2025

Asked by

Chris Vince

Labour (Co-op)Harlow

Answering Minister

the Secretary of State for Defence

Answer from Hansard

The Minister for Veterans and People (Al Carns)

The number of questions on this issue demonstrates the importance that Members in all parts of the House ascribe to the subject of cadets. As we said in the strategic defence review, we will increase the number of existing cadet forces by 30% by 2030 with £70 million of funding, but we are also considering areas of social demographic requirement where new cadet forces can be placed. That will give kids throughout the country fantastic opportunities to flourish and thrive, both at school and as they move to the end of their education.