§ 9. Mr. Pattieasked the Secretary of State for Defence what is his policy on the issue of free travel warrants to Service personnel.
§ Dr. GilbertThe issue of free travel warrants to Service personnel is a longstanding entitlement which, as far as leave travel is concerned, was reaffirmed in the 1969 report of the National Prices and Incomes Board. We have no plans to change the current entitlement.
§ Mr. PattieI thank the Minister for that reply. Does he accept that it would have an adverse effect on Service morale if at any time in future free travel warrants were to be withdrawn, or even taxed?
§ Dr. GilbertI am sure that the hon. Gentleman is aware of the impact of the Finance (No. 2) Act 1975 on the question whether warrants should be subject to tax. Discussions are continuing with the Inland Revenue. I take the hon. Gentleman's point.