Under the Reserve Forces Act 1996, Reservists can be mobilised:
- if it appears that national danger is imminent or a great emergency has arisen or in the event of an actual or apprehended attack on the United Kingdom (Section 52)
- if it appears that warlike operations are in preparation or progress (Section 54)
- to protect life or property outside the UK, or to alleviate distress or protect life or property anywhere in the world in times of disaster or apprehended disaster (Section 56)