§ 33. Sir Richard Glynasked the Secretary of State for Defence if he is aware of the connection between the disappointing recruiting figure for the last few months and the present state of pay and conditions of service in the Armed Forces; what action he proposes to take; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. HealeyYes, Sir. The next pay review is due to take effect in April, 1966, and conditions of service are under constant review.
§ Sir Richard GlynWill the Secretary of State give an assurance that the Government will do what they are in honour bound to do and implement in full the Grigg formula? Is he aware that failure to give such an assurance on a previous occasion has created dismay and may be hampering recruiting? Will he take the opportunity of giving this assurance now and saying what it is going to cost?
§ Mr. HealeyI am afraid that I have not yet been able to see the results of the Grigg review and therefore I cannot possibly give an assurance without knowing what is involved. I am fully aware of the considerations which the hon. Gentleman has mentioned.
§ Sir T. BeamishCan I press the right hon. Gentleman, as he refused to answer my question two weeks ago, at any rate to give an absolutely clear assurance that the Grigg formula will be applied?
§ Mr. HealeyYes, Sir. The Grigg formula is proceeding according to plan.
§ Sir T. BeamishThe right hon. Gentleman has not understood my question. I said, will the Grigg formula be applied?
§ Mr. HealeyThe Grigg formula is being applied and the results are not yet available to the Government. The Government cannot possibly take the decision on this matter until they know what the results are.
§ Sir Richard GlynIn view of the unsatisfactory nature of that answer I propose to raise this matter on the Adjournment.