REPORTS that Plymouth's Royal Marines could fall under the command of the Army have been described as "laughable" by city servicemen.

A national newspaper claimed the Ministry of Defence is considering an overhaul of the armed forces which could slash 30,000 troops and give the Army command of the Royal Marines from the Royal Navy.

While MoD chiefs are remaining tight-lipped over the reports until its Strategic Defence and Security Review (SDSR) is complete, city servicemen have blasted the idea from the outset.

A Royal Marines officer at Stonehouse Barracks, the home of 3 Commando Brigade, told The Herald: "We've heard the rumours and we think it's laughable. We are all of the same opinion: it just seems an unbelievable and ridiculous idea.

"We understand they [the MoD] have to come up with ideas for examination and they have to make cuts but this is just absolutely shocking."

The Financial Times claimed military planners are looking at combining eight brigades of land forces into five brigades, giving the Army operational command of the marines, and combining the corps into a single brigade with the Paras.

The marines have been under the command of the Navy since 1755.

The Royal Marine, who asked not to be named, added: "It makes no sense. It is ridiculous. If anything the Paras should bolster the Marines."

Major General Julian Thompson, who commanded Plymouth commandos during the Falklands conflict, said: "It would be a disaster. It's just sheer nonsense. I think a lot of this comes from spite and envy."

Major General Nick Vaux, who commanded Bickleigh's 42 Commando during the Falklands conflict, said: "The idea is flawed and it would not help anybody. Why would the Royal Navy give up its amphibious troops and the very expensive shipping it has?

"The SDSR has to decide whether to have that capability or not. If not, then amalgamate the Marines and tell the Navy to scrap its ships. That makes no sense to me."

Ewen Southby-Tailyour, a retired Plymouth-based Royal Marine officer and another Falklands hero, said: "The Royal Marines are by far the most cost-effective brigade.

"Merging us with the Army would not save any money at all."

Plymouth's MPs say they can't envisage the move happening.

Labour MP for Plymouth Moor View Alison Seabeck said: "The whole review is looking at absolutely every conceivable option. This is part of that. I don't at this moment in time think we should get overly anxious about this proposal."

Gary Streeter, Tory MP for South West Devon, said: "At this stage there is not a clear outcome [of the defence review] at all. I think apart from Trident it's all up for grabs."

Visitors to The Herald's website also voiced their concerns.

An MoD spokesman said: "The future configuration of our armed forces will be based on the findings of the Strategic Defence and Security Review which is under way.

"Until the review concludes, it would be inappropriate to speculate on the possible outcomes."