Town MP salutes TA's 100 years

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Wed 9th Apr 2008

This week's Centenary of the Territorial Army has been commemorated in the House of Commons by Colchester MP Bob Russell who has Tabled a special Motion which congratulates the TA on its 100 years of service. It has been supported by MPs from all parties.

Mr Russell, who is a member of the Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Defence team, said: "The TA is an integral part of HM Armed Forces and many of its volunteers are currently on active service in both Iraq and Afghanistan. The TA has a major presence in Colchester where it has a permanent base to the east of Abbey Field."

His Motion pays tribute to TA members past and present. It "recognises with admiration the important role the TA has played over the past 100 years, in times of war and peace, and is grateful for the contribution made by so many TA members in the current conflicts."

It goes on to express appreciation for the support and encouragement given by employers so that TA volunteers can undertake their duties - "and urges other employers to follow this excellent example."

With reference to a current Review into the future role of the Territorial Army, Mr Russell's Motion concludes by stating that MPs hope that it will have "a continuing role in the years ahead as an integral part of HM Armed Forces."

Earlier this year Mr Russell visited troops in Afghanistan through his membership of the Armed Forces Parliamentary Scheme. Two years ago he went to Iraq as a member of the Armed Forces Parliamentary Bill Committee. He is a Parliamentary Advisor to The Royal British Legion.