§ Mr. KeyTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what recent proposals his Department has put to the Treasury to alleviate the effect of overstretch on the armed forces. [106004]
§ Mr. Spellar[holding answer 20 January 2000]: We announced, before Christmas, enhancements to the Longer Separated Service Allowance and Longer Service at Sea Bonus in recognition of the sacrifices of those who spend long periods away from home. We have also reduced the numbers of personnel on operations in the Balkans, Gulf and Falkland Islands.