MONMOUTH MP David Davies has today announced the Welsh Affairs Committee is to hold a one-off evidence session on the future of the Queen’s Dragoon Guards.
The regiment, also known as the Welsh Cavalry, has been threatened with abolition or amalgamation as part of UK defence cuts which could see the number of British troops reduced from 102,000 to 82,000 by 2020.
Mr Davies, who chairs the Welsh Affairs Committee, said the government needed to explain its thinking behind proposals to disband “one of the oldest and most distinguished regiments in the British Army”.
“The QDG is regarded as the most senior British frontline force and is one of the best recruited regiments in the armoured corps,” he said.
“It is one of only three cap badged regiments in Wales and is the sole Welsh armoured corps regiment, whereas there are six English armoured corps regiments, two Scottish armoured corps regiments and two armoured corps regiments with Irish recruits.
“Disbanding the QDG would reduce opportunities for young people across Wales to serve in a named Welsh regiment. I have served in the Territorial Army myself in 104 Defence Regiment in Newport and I fully appreciate the opportunities which the Army can offer to young people.
“We need to make sure Wales is not unfairly treated by these defence cuts and the committee will be asking for submissions from veterans and soldiers currently serving in the QDG.
“We will also be asking the Ministry of Defence to explain its thinking on this.”