§ Mr. HancockTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many enlisted personnel have sought early retirement after serving less than the maximum period for a full pension in each of the last three years; and if he will make a statement. [25831]
§ Mr. IngramFull pension for enlisted personnel is payable after completion of 37 years' service. However, those who complete 22 or more years' service are eligible for an Immediate Pension which, broadly, is calculated on a pro rata basis. The latest figures in each category are set out in the table.
For the last three years, the total numbers of enlisted personnel who have retired before completing the necessary 37 years' service for full pension entitlement, but after having served the required 22 years for immediate pension are as shown in the table.
Personnel having served 22 years 1 November 2000 to 31 October 2001 897 1 November 1999 to 31 October 2000 752 1 November 1998 to 31 October 1999 709 The total numbers who retired before completing the necessary 22 years for payment of immediate pension and were therefore entitled to a preserved award only are given in the table:
Personnel having served less than 22 years 1 April 2000 to 1 March 2001 78,823 1 April 1999 to 1 March 2000 79,412 1 April 1998 to 1 March 1999 78.638