Cost of Living Armed Forces Personnel 2022-12-12
2022-12-12
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The question arises from concerns about the rising cost of living affecting military personnel, including high numbers claiming universal credit and soaring food and heating costs.
What recent assessment has been made by the Department regarding the impact of the cost of living increase on armed forces personnel? Nearly 3,000 personnel are already claiming universal credit, and food and heating costs are rising. What discussions is he having with DWP to ensure entitlements for personnel, and what conversations is he having with Treasury?
Universal credit eligibility depends on income, family size, accommodation type. Further investment in family accommodation includes insulation to reduce energy costs. Discussions are ongoing across Whitehall.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not specify discussions with DWP and Treasury
Universal Credit Eligibility Details
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
Concerns about rising costs and impact on military families, including those claiming universal credit and facing food and heating expenses.
I thank the Minister for his response, but nearly 3,000 personnel are already claiming universal credit, and food and heating costs are soaring. What discussions is he having with DWP to ensure entitlements? With Treasury to further support where required?
Universal credit depends on income, family size, accommodation. Family accommodation investment includes insulation. Discussions ongoing across Whitehall.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not specify DWP and Treasury discussions
Universal Credit Eligibility Details
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
Concern about military personnel being called to help during strikes, potentially affecting their time off and morale.
The cost of living crisis affects the armed forces. With calls on them during strikes, will the Government reward those who give their time? Are there any signs of rewards or thanks for those working over Christmas and New Year?
My hon. Friend takes a close interest in armed forces; conversations on this subject are happening across Whitehall.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not specify rewards or compensation for personnel helping during strikes and working holidays
General Support For The Questioner
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
Concern about service personnel turning to food banks, second jobs, and financial hardship during the cost of living crisis.
The Army's senior soldier says some troops are using food banks and taking second jobs due to cost pressures. Six months ago, I raised alarm on troops working at McDonald's. Despite saying support is provided, why isn't MoD collecting data on personnel using food vouchers, food banks, or second jobs?
Visited a local food bank; accepted pay review body's full recommendation. Generous non-contributory pension, subsidised accommodation offered. Haythornthwaite review will report on more incentives for joining and staying.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not address data collection issue directly
Discussed Food Bank Reasons Generally
Response accuracy