§ 19. Mr. Matesasked the Secretary of State for Defence what progress is being made in his inquiry into the pay and conditions of Service men and Service women in Northern Ireland.
§ Mr. Robert C. BrownAs I informed the House during the Army debate last week—[Vol. 930, c. 70]—I have called for an urgent report on this subject, work on which is proceeding.
§ Mr. Matesasked the Secretary of State for Defence what is the current purchasing power of the 50p daily allowance for British forces in Northern Ireland compared to 1974.
§ Mr. Robert C. BrownSince April 1974 the purchasing power of 50p has decreased by approximately 40 per cent. and the payment, therefore, represents a purchasing power of 30p when compared with 1974, based on the United Kingdom retail price index.