July 3, 2015
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Kristine Johnson and Reservist Bryan Paterson with Stirling MP Steven Paterson (right) at the Houses of Parliament in London.
The Houses of Parliament provided a grand setting as employers, Reservists and Cadet Adult Instructors from all over the UK met MPs.
Among those were Stirling Council’s Chief HR Officer Kristine Johnson and REME Reservist Bryan Paterson, of 153 Field Company based in Grangemouth. They attended the 29 June event courtesy of Highland Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association (HRFCA) and Defence Relationship Management (DRM).
Guests to the Parliament’s Jubilee Room were greeted by Madeleine Moon MP, Chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group for Reserves and Cadets and Julian Brazier MP, Minister for Reserves who thanked the employers and Reservists for their ongoing support and commitment.
Guests were then treated to a tour of both Houses by the MPs from their respective regions, with Stirling MP Steven Paterson showing Kristine and Bryan around.
Kristine said of the reception: “It was good to meet colleagues from around the UK with whom we have a similar connection. Together we work with our employees and see the benefit of the skills they gain through their valuable contribution to the Reserve Forces and Cadet Units.
“Sharing this with our MP Steven Paterson and meeting other MPs within the grand building of the Houses of Parliament was a special experience.”
Bryan Paterson (29) – who is a recycling operative with Stirling Council – was a regular in the Army with the Royal Engineers for nearly six years prior to becoming a Reservist nine months ago.
He said of the occasion: “The reception was a great chance for MPs to fully understand the commitment needed by Reservists like myself, so we can do our duty to our full potential. It was also good to see round the Houses of Parliament.”
Madeleine Moon MP added: “Britain’s defence and security is increasingly dependent on the men and women in our Reserve and Cadets forces.
“The vital role they play in the nation’s defence and in their local communities must not be hidden from view. Our Armed Forces are not a distant and separate group in society. They are composed of men and women working alongside civilians on a daily basis in our communities.
“It was a pleasure to honour their hard work, sacrifice and bravery at the reception in Parliament. It is important they know that their voices are heard across both Houses of Parliament.
“Having been offered an insight into the world of Reserves and Cadets, MPs were delighted to show representatives from their regions around the Palace.”
