What is this inquiry's purpose?

Surrey Police have raised a number of systemic issues about the Army's handling of recruit training, and as this goes to the heart of some fundamental issues involving Ministry of Defence (MoD) policy and practice, the Commons Defence Committee feels it requires its attention.

How is this inquiry different?

An Army investigation found all the soldiers had either committed suicide or died by accidentally discharging their rifles.

In September 2003, Surrey Police said they could not find any evidence to suggest the four were murdered.

But they also found there were failings in the way the Army deals with vulnerable recruits and the way the Army and police investigate the deaths of soldiers.

Surrey Police revealed the findings of their fifth and final report surrounding the soldiers' deaths on Thursday.

It recommends a broader inquiry into "significant issues" that need further investigation.

What are the "significant issues" that need further investigation?

Surrey Police say it is important to examine whether the problems that existed at Deepcut are common throughout the entire training organisation, how these problems - including inadequate supervision, failure to identify vulnerable recruits and problems with firearms - may be linked to cases of self-harm and suicide, and whether independent oversight is needed to "help the Army define and maintain appropriate standards of care".

What powers will this inquiry have?

It cannot oblige witnesses to attend or demand the MoD hand over documents - but the chairman, Bruce George, has indicated his members would take a dim view of any MoD failure to cooperate.

Will this inquiry end the controversy?

As the committee will not re-investigate the shootings, the families will be left with unanswered questions about how their children died.

Some may feel this inquiry means their loved ones have not died in vain - but others want a full, public enquiry, with judicial powers.

Also, the Surrey coroner is likely to hold an inquest into James Collinson's death later this year and has the authority to consider whether there are grounds to support an application to the High Court for new inquests into the deaths of Sean Benton, Cheryl James and Geoff Gray.

Have Army training procedures already changed?

Thursday's Surrey Police report says the Army has tightened the regulations for the handling of firearms, improved training facilities and training for those who liaise with families, and given young recruits more outlets to voice concerns.