HC Deb 20 July 1972 vol 841 cc889-90
13. Rear-Admiral Morgan-Giles

asked the Minister of State for Defence what steps he has taken to ensure that the pay and allowances of Service men overseas and in Her Majesty's ships shall not be adversely affected by the floating of the £ sterling.

Lord Balniel

Service men overseas and in Her Majesty's ships draw foreign currency against their pay and allowances at fixed rates of exchange. This arrangement protects Service men from market fluctuations in exchange rates, including those arising from the floating of the £ sterling.

Rear-Admiral Morgan-Giles

I am grateful for that reply. Does it mean that the men themselves realise that they are being treated generously and do not feel that they are getting the green rub?

Lord Balniel

I think that Service men have a clear knowledge of matters affecting their pay and allowances. I believe that this is widely understood.