MARINES TO VANISH IN 6YRS’ AS CUTS HIT

Liberal Democrat leader and ex-Commando, said: “The Royal Marines are a world world-class, class, versatile fighting ting force.

“In the current rent global climate we need eed them more than ever. er.

“But their numbers are being steadily y eroded under this Government. vernment. If servicemen continue to leave at this rate, the Royal Marines will disappear completely within six years years’ time. “Ministers must stop playing fast and loose with the nat nation’s defences an and reverse these foolha foolhardy cuts.” The numb number of Royal Marines has fallen by a mighty 490 since April 2015. Earlier this year it was revealed the Government was considering cutting 1,000 personnel from the Marines as part of a scheme to save £3billion a year across the Army, Royal Navy and the Royal Air Force.

But new Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson has reportedly rejected the plan and told Chancellor Philip Hammond to lay off the forces in the next round of cuts. He has said he is focused on the job and delivering for service personnel.

Last week former senior commanders warned the Army was two decades “out of date” after years of cuts.

General Sir Richard Barrons told the Defence Committee more money needed to be ploughed into the military and said the armed forces were “close to breaking”.