Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps he is taking to increase the workforce of the Royal Navy.

The Royal Navy employs a number of methods to recruit and retain personnel.

For recruitment the Royal Navy uses targeted advertising campaigns, web based and social media, radio and specific recruitment events. In addition, a range of mechanisms are used to attract and develop recruits including apprenticeship schemes and staged remunerative awards targeted at specialist areas.

In terms of retention of experienced personnel, a number of initiatives have been introduced, including targeted retention incentives and career extensions. Further developments under the Defence People Programme, such as flexible engagements, will help ensure that this process continues.