Date: 29th March 2006
Released by: ANDREW TURNER

Andrew Turner the Island’s MP welcomed news from Adam Ingram MP – Minister of State for the Armed Forces that wide reaching reforms of the Territorial Army will not lead to the loss of their presence on the Isle of Wight.

Mr Turner had contacted the Minister after hearing rumours that the Island was to lose its TA Company during reorganisation. The TA detachment which is based in Drill Hall Road close to Mr Turner’s office is to have a changed role becoming a detachment of 266 Port Support Squadron, 165 Port Regiment within The Royal Logistic Corps.

Mr Turner said

“Although I had already obtained assurances from senior Army sources that the TA would remain on the Island, I am pleased that I have now received official confirmation from the Minister, who has also informed me that there will be no cut to the size or budget of the force.

“There will be a number of changes phased in over the next four years, which are designed to more closely align the structure of the TA with the Regular Army for recruitment, training and operations. Although change can be challenging I am sure our excellent TA volunteers will adapt admirably and it seems fitting that the Island’s detachment will now form a key role within a specialist Port Regiment.”

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Contact: Andrew Turner 01983 530808