Oral Answers to Questions

Peter Swallow Excerpts

Monday 10th February 2025 Commons Chamber

[David Taylor (Hemel Hempstead) (Lab)]

8. What steps he is taking to help increase recruitment to the armed forces.

[Peter Swallow (Bracknell) (Lab)]

20. What steps he is taking to help increase recruitment to the armed forces.

[Sarah Edwards (Tamworth) (Lab)]

24. What steps he is taking to help increase recruitment to the armed forces.

--- Later in debate ---

[Luke Pollard]

I am grateful for the enthusiasm of young people in my hon. Friend’s constituency for a career in cyber. Last week, the new cyber direct entry pathway for our armed forces was opened for the Royal Air Force and the Navy—the Army entry will come online next year. That allows people to join directly to pursue a career in cyber. By changing the entry requirements, it will bring on board the cyber-expertise that we need to keep our country safe. The frontline of the future is not tomorrow; it is today—it is the cyber-frontline. Young people across the nation should look on the Royal Navy and RAF websites at a career in cyber. It is well paid and will keep our country safe.

[Peter Swallow]

I welcome the news that the MOD has signed the British Dyslexia Association’s dyslexia-friendly workplace pledge. Does the Minister agree that, to address the recruitment crisis, it is vital that the armed forces remain inclusive for recruits from all backgrounds and with all experiences, while rightly continuing to demand high standards?

[Luke Pollard]

I am pleased to confirm that the Ministry of Defence signed the dyslexia-friendly workplace pledge at the end of last year, making us the first UK Government Department to do so. It is a fantastic step forward that signals that the MOD is a top employer for people with dyslexia. Whatever someone’s ability, there is a role for them within our armed forces, because our armed forces need people with a whole range of abilities, backgrounds and expertise to keep our nation safe.