§ Mr. Churchillasked the Secretary of State for Defence what was the percentage increase in local overseas allowances for members of Her Majesty's Forces overseas in each year since 1974–75 to date; and how this compares with the allowances paid to diplomats and civil servants working overseas.
§ Dr. GilbertEven in one country, or region within a country, no realistic comparison is possible between the movement in the rates of local overseas allowance (LOA) and of foreign service allowance (FSA). Both supplement pay, with the object of enabling the recipient to maintain his United Kingdom living standard in the case of LOA, and a local standard in the case of FSA. Both are adjusted to allow for currency fluctuations; and, 107W between the normal triennial reviews, FSA can also be adjusted to take account of such matters as significant movements in local living costs and the level of basic pay. There are more than 30 countries in which both allowances are payable, and the number of individual rates runs into thousands. It is not practicable to quote on overall percentage increase, but I have already undertaken to write to the hon. Member giving some examples of changes in individual rates.