HC Deb 06 December 1977 vol 940 cc665-6W
28. Mr. Hurd

asked the Secretary of State for Defence whether he will set up an independent inquiry into the pay and conditions of the Armed Services.

37. Mr. Goodhew

asked the Secretary of State for Defence how many representations he has received since he announced the last changes in the pay of the Armed Forces; and what action he proposes to take thereon.

Dr. Gilbert

My right hon. Friend and I are aware of the concern which the Armed Forces feel about their pay and standards of living. I am sure that the Armed Forces Pay Review Body is similarly aware. It is now working on its report and recommendations for next year. I cannot prejudge this report, but I can say that the independence of the AFPRB is a very valuable safeguard of Service interests and that my right hon. Friend has no intention of changing the system or of setting up a separate inquiry.