§ 28. Mr. Gowasked the Secretary of State for Defence what would be the amount of the additional daily payment being made to members of Her Majesty's Forces serving in Northern Ireland if it were to have the same purchasing power as was the case when the daily payment of 50p was introduced on 1st April 1974; and what is the estimated cost of this daily payment during the current financial year.
§ Mr. Robert C. BrownSince April 1974 the retail price index has risen by 54.1 per cent., and the daily rate of 50p set in 1974 would therefore, have to be increased to 77p if it were to have an equivalent purchasing power now. Based on the latest available strengths for the Armed Forces receiving this form of additional pay, the cost for the current financial year would be £2,665,412.