Opportunities For Women In The Armed Forces A Matter Of Principle

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Wed 22nd May 2002

Paul Keetch MP, Liberal Democrat Shadow Defence Secretary, commenting ahead of the announcement by the MoD on the role of women in the armed forces, said:

"The demands of front-line combat are severe. It is sometimes the brutal bayonet that separates life and death. "

"But we must recognise that, in order to defend our values and freedoms, our armed forces must reflect them as well. Equality of opportunity is a fundamental part of those values. The MoD is regularly challenged on such matters in the courts - its policies are often found wanting and at a substantial cost. It should not make the same mistake again.

"We should not compromise on the rigorous standards required for front line roles, but as a matter of principle, no post should be closed to male or female personnel provided they can meet the physical and mental requirements of the task."