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Armed Forces: Health Services

Asked by Ben Obese-JectyConservativeMinistry of DefenceTabled Answered 20 October 2025UIN 79513

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to page 131 of the Strategic Defence Review 2025, what progress he has made on establishing a Sponsored Reserve model.

Answered by Louise Sandher-Jones

The Defence Medical Services (DMS) is exploring the potential for a ‘Sponsored Reserve’ model or equivalent to increase medical Reserve numbers, with more personnel held at readiness. The DMS is engaging with industry providers to inform this work and will assess the benefits of employing Sponsored Reserves to DMS and consider options for capability and specialty-based contracts.

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