To ask the Secretary of State for Defence pursuant to the Answer of 17 March 2006, Official Report, column 2514W, on the armed forces pay review, what the (a) current manpower requirement and (b) manning level is as an absolute figure in each of the operational pinch points listed. (64082)

I am withholding the information requested as its release would, or would be likely to prejudice the effectiveness and security of our armed forces.