From Coffman's link:
The deficit between strength and requirement of full-time trained Armed Forces was 8,750 or 5.5 per cent at 1 April 2014. This deficit has increased from 2,230 (1.4 per cent) at 1 April 2013 and increased from 7,880 (4.0 per cent) at 1 April 2000. The increase in the deficit since 1 April 2012 is due to the fact that SDSR-driven requirements have reduced quicker than the strength.
If the requirements have reduced quicker than the strength would that not reduce the deficit?
Have I gone mad or are clowns providing the manning evidence?