HC Deb 27 February 1973 vol 851 cc328-9W
Mr. Loveridge

asked the Minister of State for Defence what steps his Department takes to encourage members of the Armed Forces to insure their lives against death for a capital sum; and whether these steps are also taken in the case of cadets and other members of the volunteer forces.

Mr. Ian Gilmour

Life insurance is a personal matter but members of the Regular forces are encouraged to make suitable provision. Advice is given in occasional Defence Council instructions, and facilities are given for lectures and individual advice on savings, insurance and other financial matters. In addition, non-public funds, which are operated on a contributory basis by voluntary membership, provide lump sums for dependants in the case of death. These arrangements do not generally apply to members of the Reserve forces, who are primarily civilians and are expected to make whatever provision they feel is necessary.