Armed Forces Pay 2022-01-10
2022-01-10
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP questioned recent trends regarding the level of pay for armed forces personnel, noting that many have experienced a real-terms decrease since 2010.
What recent assessment has been made of trends in the level of pay of armed forces personnel? Since 2010, many service members have seen significant real-term decreases up to 6.5%, struggling with the rising cost of living. Will the Minister lift the pay freeze and restore levels from a decade ago?
Armed forces pay is competitive and includes benefits like subsidised food, accommodation, non-contributory pension, and allowances. We are mindful of protecting the lowest earners during the public sector pay pause.
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Assessment & feedback
The Minister did not directly address whether he will lift the pay freeze or restore levels to pre-2010 amounts
We Are Mindful Of Protecting The Lowest Earners
Service Personnel Benefit Significantly From Subsidies And Allowances
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP expressed concern over real-term decreases in service members' salaries since 2010 and the impact of cost-of-living increases, challenging the government to lift the pay freeze.
Will the Minister now lift the public sector pay freeze for armed forces personnel? Many have seen significant real-term decreases up to 6.5%, struggling with rising costs. Will levels be restored to pre-2010 figures?
Service personnel benefit from subsidies, non-contributory pensions, and allowances. However, the SNP's tax hike on service members in Scotland is £580 per person, which the Ministry of Defence compensates for.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not address lifting pay freeze or restoring levels
Service Personnel Benefit From Subsidies And Allowances
The Snp'S Tax Hike On Service Members In Scotland
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP noted that after six months' training, private soldiers earn roughly £3,000 to £4,000 less than newly-trained policemen. The question is about the disparity in pay.
Why do service members get approximately £3,000 to £4,000 less than a policeman after six months' training? That seems strange and needs explanation.
Service personnel benefit from subsidised food and accommodation, non-contributory pension, and allowances. Many young soldiers also take advantage of the Forces Help to Buy scheme for home ownership.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not provide an account or explanation for the pay disparity
Service Personnel Benefit From Subsidies And Allowances
Young Soldiers Can Use The Forces Help To Buy Scheme
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP expressed concern over retention issues for senior staff due to the gap between what they earn and what they could make in private sectors.
Is the Minister aware that there are huge pressures on retaining more senior staff, especially in the Royal Navy and Air Force? The skill demand in these areas is affecting their ability to stay. What measures can be taken?
We offer technical bonuses, are initiating a strategic review of terms and conditions, reward and incentivisation schemes to compete with private sectors.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not specify specific measures or timelines for addressing the issue
Initiating A Strategic Review
Offering Technical Bonuses
Response accuracy