Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps he has taken to improve retention of officers in the (a) Royal Navy, (b) Army and (c) Royal Air Force.

The new Government’s work in improving retention and recruitment is part of a package of measures aimed to renew the contract between the nation and those who serve. We are modernising and refining our policies and processes to attract, and then retain the best possible talent, highlighting that Defence is a modern, forward-facing employer which offers a valuable and rewarding career. Our aim is to attract and recruit more, as well as maximise the number of applicants that successfully enter and remain in Armed Forces employment.

The retention measures we have introduced and in development are aimed at the widest possible audience where possible, whether that be Officer or Enlisted ranks, unless directed towards protecting specific operational capabilities. As part of this inclusive approach to retention we have already awarded the largest Armed Forces pay increase in 22 years, providing appropriate financial recognition to all personnel and additionally supporting the retention of key skills.

The Ministry of Defence and Ministers recognise the significant sacrifices that our military families make in serving our nation, and more retention-positive measures have been introduced. As part of this we have protected the integrity of the Continuity of Education Allowance; the Secretary of State for Defence directed that the cap on current rates be lifted to support the means of mitigating the disruption to Service children’s education, caused by Service commitments involving frequent moves of the family home. The recent repurchase of the SFA estate from Annington Homes will enable the Ministry of Defence the freedom to embark on a substantive programme of redevelopment and improvement of our housing estate to provide quality homes for Service Families.

Furthermore, we have extended Wraparound Childcare to families serving overseas which will potentially save up to £3,400 annually for Service families.