Recruitment for Armed Forces falls

THE number of people joining the Armed Forces from the North East has seen a significant drop, sparking concerns from MPs.

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A 40% drop in Army recruitment from the region is more than twice the national average.

The numbers sparked a debate in Parliament where a number of North East MPs called for action to reverse the trend. The debate came as the UK is set for a major increase in the amount it spends on national defence.

In a Westminster Hall debate, Newton Aycliffe and Spennymoor MP Alan Strickland said the North East could “make a significant contribution” as the nation moves “to warfighting readiness to deter threats and strengthen security”