16 February 2006

Pay rise for UK's armed forces

The Defence Secretary John Reid has announced an above-inflation pay rise for every member of the British armed forces.

The basic military salary for all privates, lance corporals and the equivalent ranks on the lower pay range in the Royal Navy and Royal Air Force will increase by 3.3% following a recommendation from the Armed Forces' Pay Review Body (AFPRB).

All other ranks and commissioned officers in the Regular and Reserve Armed Forces will get a 3% pay rise.

Mr Reid said: "It has been another challenging year for all of our Armed Forces and I have been impressed with their commitment, dedication to duty and achievements.

"This pay increase is thoroughly deserved and recognises their valuable work; whether on peace support operations in Southern Iraq or on humanitarian missions in the mountains of Northern Pakistan."

Additional rises include an increase in the rates of specialist pay - such as flying pay, submarine pay, diving pay and hydrographic pay.

General Sir Michael Walker, Chief of Defence Staff said: "It is a credit to the professionalism of our Armed Forces that they continue to meet, and to exceed, the challenging demands placed upon them. Their dedication, determination and courage in the face of uncertainty, separation from family and extreme danger are ever being tested. Ensuring their value is recognised and rewarded is critical to our ability to be ready to fight and win. Our nation values the commitment of those serving in our Armed Forces. This pay increase recognises the high regard in which our people are held. It is a good result for them."

The AFPRB recommendations on pay are based on comparable civilian jobs, and take into account the particular pressures facing the armed forces at present, including recruitment, retention and motivation.

The pay rises will take effect on 1 April 2006.

(SP)