The Earl of Carlisleasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they have plans to permit officers and other ranks serving in HM Armed Forces the rights of association outside the chain of command. [HL3933]
§ Baroness Symons of Vernham DeanWe have no plans to change the current system. It is Ministry of Defence policy not to have a union or federation for Service personnel. Service pay and allowances, and the charges related to services provided, are governed by an independent Pay Review Body. In addition, Service personnel have statutory redress of complaint procedures under which they have the right to submit a complaint to the Defence Council. The details of these procedures are kept under review. However, the Ministry of Defence does have agreements with a number of major unions and concessions with 79WA professional associations whereby Service personnel may be recognised as eligible for membership.
No restrictions are placed upon attendance at meetings or training courses organised by civilian trade unions and professional associations, provided that Service personnel do not attend in uniform, service duties are not impeded, and that no action is taken which would bring the Service into disrepute. The Armed Forces must maintain a position of political neutrality. Service personnel may not participate in industrial action or in any form of political activity organised by a civilian trade union or professional organisation to which they belong.