Government must not use reservists for 'defence on cheap'

What role should part-time troops play in the armed forces? A report is expected to recommend an increase in the proportion of reservists to regular soldiers.

But there are concerns the money needed to train and equip them might not be available at a time when the forces are facing cuts.

Former commander of the 3rd Battalion The Parachute Regiment, Colonel Stuart Tootal, who served with reservists in Afghanistan, said the government must not use reservists for "defence on the cheap".