§ 5. Mr. Jannerasked the Minister of State for Defence what arrangements have now been made to pay members of the armed forces by cheque rather than in cash; and what plans he has for developing the system of payment by cheque now that the increased rates of pay lead to large holdings of cash having to be maintained for pay purposes.
§ Mr. KirkArmy and R.A.F. officers are paid direct into their bank accounts and soldiers and airmen are actively encouraged to opt for this form of payment. Similar facilities are planned for personnel in the Royal Navy and Royal Marines. Meanwhile, they can make fixed allotments into a bank account. Other methods of payment, including the use of Giro, to reduce cash requirements, are being studied.
§ Mr. JannerI thank the hon. Gentleman for his reply. Will he make arrangements to enable all Service men to obtain their money without going through the out-dated routine of the pay parade?