Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether he plans to extend the retention bonuses for tri-service aircraft engineers.

Retention payments remain under constant review and are targeted where they provide the best value for recruitment, retention and the taxpayer. For aircraft engineers specifically, we are collecting data on their efficacy and will review if necessary.

Financial incentives, including retention payments, are but one method we use to improve recruitment and retention and are not just targeted at aircraft engineers. We are always seeking ways to incentivise Service, not all of which are financial. The Strategic Defence Review also explored the importance of pay and measures to improve retention, including recommending the Ministry of Defence prioritise delivering its 'flexible working' initiative, and providing support towards home ownership. Also announced as part of the Review was over £1.5 billion additional funding to fix forces family housing.

As a new Government, we have already improved the childcare offer for Service personnel, secured the largest pay award for Service personnel in 22 years, and we are in the final stages of a landmark bill to appoint an independent Armed Forces Commissioner, giving Service personnel a strong voice that can hold the Government to account.