Geoff Hoon, defence secretary, has appealed for more Treasury funds in order to stave off a generals' revolt over defence cuts.

The Telegraph claims that £1.2 billion of cuts have been planned, including the possible axing of 10 regiments and the merger of some brigades. But army generals, who are thought to be expected to suffer the brunt of the cuts, have said an additional £500 million is needed if army numbers are to rise from 100,000 to 108,000 as planned in the Strategic Defence Review.

Separate reports have claimed that the Household Cavalry may be deployed to fill the gaps in overstretched armed forces units stationed overseas. Men from the mounted regiment would be moved from ceremonial duties to fill places in armoured units if planned foreign commitments push the army to breaking point.