HC Deb 27 February 1985 vol 74 cc205-6W
Mrs. Virginia Bottomley

asked the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the number of pre-school children in British Army of the Rhine families living in Germany and the support and educational services provided for them.

Mr. Lee

As at the end of January this year there were 16,612 pre-school children in British Army of the Rhine (BAOR) families living in Germany.

The support and educational facilities available for the under-fives in BAOR are similar to those provided in the United Kingdom for children of the same age.

Percentage of earnings absorbed by income tax and social security contributions
United Kingdom France Germany USA Japan
Single Person
1979 £1,500 12 10 16 6 (6) 8 (8)
1984 £1,500 0 13 17.5 7 (7) 10(10)
1979 £3,000 24 14 23 14(14) 11(13)
1984 £3,000 19 13 23 7(7) 10(10)

Kindergartens, mother and toddler groups, and playgroups have been established over a number of years and are well supported.

In addition, the medical services provided are comprehensive and include child guidance clinics, paediatricians, SSAFA health visitors, speech therapists, and there are some limited facilities for handicapped children.