Soldiers present shopping list

The new head of the army General Sir David Richards takes charge on Friday, promising to focus on the military effort in Afghanistan.

However, serving members of the army appear to put better kit and accomodation at the top of their wish list.

Many have contacted Newsbeat to highlight the issues they would like General Sir David Richards to prioritise.

Corporal Carr said he would like to see improvements to "living conditions for soldiers on camp" adding that the "food is a disgrace".

Craftsman Phoenix of REME thinks "operational equipment should be top of the list, then our accommodation should be updated."

The standard of kit issued to the military appears to be a major issue with his colleagues as well.

Andy in Leicester said: "I'm in the Paras and he should be thinking about getting us better equipment like the Americans."

A soldier who wishes only to be known as Tony added: "I am in the Army and I think his top priority should be to get more man power and kit needed to prevent more casualties.

"We are constantly borrowing kit from the Americans - not good when we are meant to be the best armed forces in the country, is it?"

Lee in Plymouth wants General Richards to address soldiers pay "after sorting out the right equipment he should push for higher wages as our lives are at risk".

Melissa in Catterick would like any extra funds to be directed towards soldiers injured in action.

She said: "They should use the money for bigger payouts for the wounded. People with their life on the line for our country. The fallen and wounded should get more."

However, General Richards, the Chief of the General Staff, has previously stated that he "will not" be presenting the government with a shopping list for military equipment on his first day in office.

He takes over from his sometimes outspoken predecessor General Sir Richard Dannatt, who often clashed with ministers over the issue of kit shortages.

Accepting his new duties, General Richards said: "The army's most valuable assets are its people. It is essential that we continue to look after our soldiers and their families, especially those injured or affected adversely through conflict."