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This performance represented a marked improvement over the preceding year in terms of the proportion of Force Elements with no critical weaknesses, which increased from 80 per cent in July to September 2003 to 98 per cent in October to December 2004.
The report also notes that the system is continuously improving and that it has proven itself over time.
"We very much welcome this report. At a time when our forces are very busy, it is more important than ever to know how ready our excellent Navy, Army and Air Force are for any new tasks that might arise", said Mr Ingram.
"No Armed Forces can be perfectly ready at all times for every contingency, but we must be able to manage effectively the risks to preparing forces for new operations."
"This report underlines our commitment to achieving this complex but crucial task."
“We have the largest sustained increase in defence expenditure for twenty years. We have a major ship building programme; a major renewal of the RAF and major investment coming along for the Army."
Sir John Bourn, head of the National Audit Office, recognised the efforts Britain's Armed Forces have gone to:
"At a time when the security environment is unpredictable, it is encouraging that the Ministry of Defence is continuing to develop the system that reports the readiness of its Armed Forces."
"I am pleased that the Ministry of Defence has already begun work in response to the recommendations in this Report."
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