Nicholas Soames: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what process is followed for the nomination and preparation of battle casualty replacements. [6416]

Dr Liam Fox MP, Secretary of State for Defence [holding answer 6 July 2010]: The requirement for battle casualty replacements (BCRs) is identified by the Permanent Joint Headquarters. The processes for generating BCRs, once this requirement has been confirmed, differ between the three single Services. For Army and Royal Marine units BCRs are drawn from a nominated cohort based in the Unit's rear party at the home location. This cohort will have been selected and trained at the same time as the deploying Unit and will be up to date on their core military skills. The exceptions to this are for some pinch point trades, where personnel are usually pulled forward from the next Brigade in line to deploy; and senior officer replacements, which are generated by the relevant headquarters.

For the Royal Air Force, BCRs for formed units are drawn from the rear party at the home location. Other replacements are generated by Headquarters Air Command. If the replacement is required immediately and the gap is affecting operational effectiveness, a waiver to deploy without completing the required pre-deployment courses can be given by theatre. This has not been necessary to date.