HC Deb 24 January 1978 vol 942 cc579-80W
25. Mr. Goodhew

asked the Secretary of State for Defence whether he will re-frame the basis on which the pay of the Armed Forces is calculated before the Armed Forces Pay Review Body is required to produce its next report and recommendations.

Mr. Mulley

The concept of a military salary determined by reference to earnings in jobs of comparable weight in civilian employment was introduced by the National Board for Prices and Incomes in 1970. Subject to the overriding requirements of pay policies, I believe that it continues to provide an equitable method in the long term for determining Service pay levels. I therefore see no reason to reframe the basis on which the pay of the Armed Forces is calculated.

40. Mr. Beith

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what assessment he has made of the effects on Royal Air Force morale of current pay levels.

Mr. Wellbeloved

While there is anxiety among members of the Royal Air Force about pay, their dedication and sense of duty is such that there has been no discernible lowering of discipline or of the efficiency with which the Service discharges its tasks.

45. Rear-Admiral Morgan Giles

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what further consideration he has given since the end of emergency fire duties to the restoration of comparability for Service men's pay and allowances.

Mr. Mulley

As the House has been told on several previous occasions, the Government are determined to ensure that Service pay is restored to full comparability as soon as pay policy permits.