Vernon Coaker MP, Labour’s Shadow Defence Secretary, responding to Lord Richards’ criticism of the government this morning, said:

“Lord Richards is the latest senior military figure to criticise the government.

"A rushed Strategic Defence and Security Review has led to huge problems at the Ministry of Defence. As Lord Richards said, it’s clear that Reserve recruitment is still way off track, and unless it’s sorted out Britain could be left with dangerous capability gaps.

"Labour will hold a strategically-led, financially responsible SDSR and ensure Britain’s safety and security comes first.”