§ Sir Antony Buckasked the Secretary of State for Defence if he will take steps to abolish parental contributions made by members of Her Majesty's armed forces serving overseas towards the cost of their children's holiday visits; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. StanleyA major grievance identified among Service personnel is the present requirement for those serving abroad to contribute up to 3 per cent. of their salary towards the cost of the third visit each year by their children from a boarding school in the United Kingdom. I am pleased to say that, as my noble Friend the Minister of State for Defence Support announced in another place on 7 November, the Government have decided to abolish this requirement for a parental contribution. This will allow Christmas visits at public expense this year and will, I know, be very welcome news to the armed forces. It demonstrates once again the Government's firm support for them. We are continuing to pay close attention to all conditions of service, and we shall introduce further changes when justified.