Defence Reform Bill

Debate between Baroness Laing of Elderslie and John Baron

Wednesday 20th November 2013 Commons Chamber

[Mr Baron]

Using language such as “tripwires” and apportioning motives that do not exist does not do my right hon. Friend any good at all. The bottom line is that it is perfectly right for Parliament to say, “Let us pause and examine in detail,” and it is in the Government’s gift to make it a very brief pause indeed. The Secretary of State has still not answered the question. Does he accept that the plan has changed since 2011? We have heard in the House that the previous Secretary of State said that the intention was not to wind down the regulars until we were sure that the reservists could take their place. When and why did that plan change?

[Madam Deputy Speaker (Mrs Eleanor Laing)]

Order.

--- Later in debate ---

[Mr Baron]

rose—

[Madam Deputy Speaker (Mrs Eleanor Laing)]

Order. The Secretary of State is not giving way and he has very little time to finish.