Paul Pindar, Capita’s chief executive, was criticised during a Public Accounts Committee (PAC) after he suggested that reduced manpower levels in the Army was due to a lack of on-going conflict.

Mr Pindar said: “We have the disadvantage that we actually have no wars on,” adding that ““Soldiers like to join the Army when they actually have something to do.” Margaret Hodge, chair of the committee, described the comments as “awful”.

MP Richard Bacon, said that he was “doubtful” of the explanation, pointing to the negative contrast between online applications and past practices involving armed forces personal in recruitment offices.

The PAC was held to discuss the reduction in recruitment since Capita took charge of advertising, marketing and application forms.

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