To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what assessment he has made of the impact of the decision to stop recruiting in Territorial Army units that are not making a significant contribution to operations in financial year 2007-08 on (a) unit manning levels and (b) unit effectiveness. (143819)

It is fully recognised that ceasing recruitment in selected TA units for one year will have an effect on the TA's ability to develop operational capability in the short term; both in term of manning levels and unit effectiveness. Work is continuing to ensure that mitigating strategies can be put in place if required.