Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what his Department's guidance is on the use of gyms on UK military bases and maintaining the fitness of the armed forces during the covid-19 outbreak; and if he will make a statement.

Maintaining the fitness of our Armed Forces is critical to ensuring their operational effectiveness and this has continued throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Defence has benefitted from specific exemptions in law to continue to use gyms and sports facilities on the Defence estate throughout lockdown, taking into account risk assessments and Devolved legislation. However, these facilities are only open where it is deemed essential and COVID-19 secure measures are in place to minimise risks. Other forms of COVID-secure exercise and physical training are being encouraged where the use of gyms is not permitted.