Paddy Ashdown, former Royal Marine and ex-Liberal Democrats Leader commented:
 
“Fallon’s fibs are a desperate attempt to try and hide the fact his government has slashed troop numbers, breaking a Conservative promise.

“It’s no surprise Britain's top generals have accused the Tories of deceiving the public over defence cuts.
 
“The Conservatives have cut the number of Royal Marines and left our troops on the front line without basic equipment.
 
“Britain needs a strong opposition to stand up for our armed forces and hold this government to account.”