BT chief visits reservists in Basra

Sir Christopher Bland will meet BT telecommunications experts deployed to Basra, southern Iraq, with 81 Signal Squadron.

His trip to the Middle East is designed to encourage other employers, both private and public, to pledge their backing for the UK's volunteer forces.

SaBRE (Supporting Britain's Reservists and Employers), which is running the campaign, wants all British companies to draw up written policies on reservists.

Since January 2003 more than 13,000 reservists have been called up for full-time service in Iraq or Afghanistan - six of whom have been killed.

Two Territorial Army soldiers have received the military cross, the second highest award for gallantry in the face of the enemy after the Victoria Cross, for their bravery in Iraq.

There are currently 41,000 people in the four reserve forces, the Territorial Army, Royal Naval Reserve, Royal Marines Reserve and Royal Auxiliary Air Force.

Sir Christopher said: "These men and women serve alongside their colleagues in the regular forces with courage and dedication, often at considerable personal sacrifice.

"They are a vital part of the nation's armed forces and deserve the support of their employers every step of the way. We at BT admire their commitment and will continue to support all current and future employees in the reserve forces."

Patrick Snowball, chief executive of insurance giant Norwich Union, is also meeting reservists in Basra on Tuesday.