Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask His Majesty's Government what consideration they have given to changing the policies determining retirement dates for members of the Armed Forces.

The single Services have responsibility for setting their own retirement ages.

Royal Navy

With the exception of Medical, Dental and Nursing Officers who can serve up to age 60 in some cases, retirement age in the Royal Navy is typically age 55. Service beyond age 55 to age 60 or beyond is offered on a case-by-case basis in order to meets the needs of the Service. The Royal Navy is considering implementing a retirement age of 60 for all personnel but has not yet undertaken the work needed to determine the implications and cost of doing so.

Army

There is no single retirement age for Army personnel; retirement age varies depending on the commitment made with each Service Person. Engagements of differing lengths are offered to accommodate the operational needs and outputs of the Army together with the requirement to maintain the structure of a hierarchical organisation. Individuals may apply to serve beyond 60 where there is a Service need including senior staff officer appointments, deep specialists, and full-time reserve service contracts. Retirement age is frequently reviewed in light of changing Defence tasks, the needs of the Army and the benefit of Service Personnel, whilst aligning them with changes to Armed Forces Pension Schemes.

Royal Air Force (RAF)

The RAF carries out an annual review of its Terms and Conditions of Service legislation to ensure that it remains fit for purpose and provides the right personnel support required to achieve its operational commitment. This includes the engagements, commissions, and consequential retirement dates of its personnel. Although no changes are currently planned, we continually assess this policy to ensure it provides the appropriate platform from which the RAF can deliver its operational output. Individuals can have their service extended beyond their mandatory end-of-service date based on an exceptional Service need.