End the ‘cover-up’ over shortages in military, ex-defence chiefs tell ministers

FORMER admirals, generals and defence ministers have backed calls to end the ‘cover-up’ of critical shortages of skilled military personnel.

Last night they accused the Government of using secrecy to spare its blushes – after it removed data from the public domain on security grounds.

The Ministry of Defence’s deliberate withholding of this information – even from MPs permitted to receive classified briefings – also triggered calls for greater transparency.

The scale of the staffing crisis was highlighted again last week when it was revealed that the Royal Navy was retiring two of its warships because of a shortage of sailors. Officials have resorted to desperate measures to tackle the problem, for example offering £7,500 ‘golden hand been shakes’ to soldiers transferring into Parachute Regiment.

Until recently, the MoD’s annual report listed every role where there were insufficient troops and provided the numbers of personnel required and the shortfall. Those backing calls for greater transparency say publishing these details ensured officials were held accountable – and that the issue received the required attention.

However, secrecy has grown. Former Navy chief Admiral Lord West said: ‘The Government has trying to hide defence shortfalls from scrutiny... I have noticed that many of my questions have not been answered properly on the spurious assertion that it affects national security.’

Former general Sir Richard Shirreff also called for transparency as did Labour defence spokesman John Healey who said: ‘This smacks of a coverup, allowing ministers to dodge questions about the... crisis.’

Former Tory defence minister Tobias Ellwood said: ‘If the MoD is content to disguise operational limitations, then

‘This is to mislead the public’

this is to mislead the public on its competence to guarantee the nation’s security.’

Former sailor Commander Tom Sharpe claimed the MoD was using secrecy for political purposes. He said: ‘The veil should be lifted... so these critical matters can be addressed.’

An MoD spokesman said: ‘A number of trials and pilots are under way to support Armed Forces careers, backed by investment to increase recruitment and retention.’