MoD Information

Hoon Calls Up 1,500 Reservists

Wed, January 08, 2003

Source: Ananova

Thousands of reservists have been called up by the Government in preparation for possible military action against Iraq

Thousands of reservists have been called up by the Government in preparation for possible military action against Iraq. The Defence Secretary has told the House of Commons that non-compliance with UN demands by Saddam Hussein could be declared at any time, either before or after January 27.

Geoff Hoon has made an order under the Reserve Forces Act to "enable the call out of reservists for possible operations against Iraq."

He said call out notices would be sent to around 1,500 reservists initially and that further notices would be issued as appropriate.

Mr Hoon said this did not mean a decision had been taken to commit British forces to such operations, but it was an essential measure to ensure that if "such operations become necessary they will be properly supported with the skills and expertise that our reserve forces provide."

The Defence Secretary said he had authorised the deployment of a number of additional vessels and units to the Mediterranean later this month which would represent a "significant amphibious capability." They would go to the Gulf "if and as required."

Mr Hoon said it was likely that further deployments would be made in the coming weeks.