The Earl of Carlisleasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they have found ways of reconciling the need to maintain reasonable career structures in the Armed Forces and extending the 22-year engagement term for servicemen and women for those who wish it. [HL3746]
§ Baroness Symons of Vernham DeanOpportunities exist in all three Services for servicemen and women to extend the standard 22-year engagement term, subject to the needs of their service.
The Naval Service, including the Royal Navy and Royal Marines, offer five and ten-year extensions beyond 22 years to specially selected senior rates, and to all ratings selected for promotion to Warrant Officer.
The Army has recently confirmed that it will maintain a 22-year career as standard, but is keen to maximise use of experienced personnel beyond this point where appropriate. Selected Warrant Officers and Senior Non-Commissioned Officers are currently able to serve beyond 22 years, up to the age of 55, 78WA where there are specific shortfalls in expertise which cannot be filled by any other means. The Army is however currently reviewing options to allow soldiers to be employed beyond current engagements.
A revised engagement structure, based on the principle of "up or out", to maintain promotion flow, was introduced into the RAF on 1 April 1986. Except in some specialist trades, ground trades personnel join on a nine-year engagement and, subject to satisfactory performance and a personnel requirement, may extend to 12 or 15 years' service. Those promoted to corporal, progress to a 22-year engagement. Service beyond this point is linked to further promotion and a manning requirement. The RAF is developing a number of measures to address concerns about reduced promotion opportunities following reductions in the Service over the last decade.