Rugby people critical of Government Record on Armed Forces

Rugby people have condemned the Government’s attitude concerning the Armed Forces in a poll conducted by Rugby Conservatives. Nearly 80% of those asked felt that the proposed cut to the funding of the Territorial Army was a mistake, and over 70% felt that the Government does not do enough to help wounded or returning service personnel.

Mark Pawsey said:

“The local people I spoke to over the phone and on the doorstep were vocal in their criticism of the Government on the issues that surround the brave men and women who serve on the frontlines of Afghanistan. People here were overwhelmingly opposed to the plan by Defence Minister, Bob Ainsworth, to substantially cut the funding and support of the Territorial Army. The Conservative Party rightly opposed this, as did the people we spoke to, and I was pleased to see the Government back down on this important issue.”

Mark continued:  

“During these difficult economic times we must accept that there are areas of Government spending that must be reined back, but it is vital that these savings are made in the right areas and the correct fashion. The Ministry of Defence cannot be immune from this and the Conservatives have already identified areas where money can be saved, but cutting back the frontline services, where men and women put their lives at risk for their country must not be the solution.”

Mark concluded:

“It was good to hear from the people I spoke to about their support for our troops in the very important role they are playing. I know from those discussions how pleased they will be that David Cameron has committed the Conservatives to create a dedicated War Cabinet which will focus on the important task of completing our objectives in Afghanistan.”