§ Mr. JenkinTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence when he expects to publish proposals on armed forces pension and compensation arrangements; and what consultation process he envisages following such publication. [77790]
Mr. IngrainProposals on the new Armed Forces Pension Scheme and Compensation Scheme were published in March 2001. The formal consultations took place between March 2001 and July 2001, although they were informally extended to October 2001 to admit some late replies. In parallel, discussion groups took place at Service units throughout the country and discussions were also held with ex-Service organisations, such as the Royal British Legion and Forces Pension Society. The final proposals are currently being staffed for final approval by Ministers. These proposals have taken account of the comments received during the consultation process, the recommendations of the House of Commons Defence Committee, and discussions with the ex-Service community. Subject to approval around the turn of the year, the final details of the schemes and a report on the consultations will be published early next year.