Being a total cynic, one might almost suspect that the
intention was to reduce the numbers early. But what possible benefit could a VSO gain by making extra savings for his Boss and the Defence Minister? I mean, GCB only gets you a flag and a pew in the
"orbis miraculum" that is the Henry VII Chapel at Westminster Abbey, and your long-suffering Mrs elevated to
Lady 
..and further, one might also be tempted into thinking that SDSR reductions were solely to make the required manning figures match the few people who were left, rather than carefully considered figures to efficiently defend the Realm.
..and I do have a relly who used to have a scrambled egg hat in Manning, so I have some small ability to sort the bullsh!t from the reality.