Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what recent assessment he has made of the potential impact of levels of pay for the armed forces’ (a) morale and (b) recruitment.

The motivations of individuals choosing to join or remain in the Armed Forces are unique to each person and will be influenced by several considerations. Pay forms part of a wider remuneration package which includes a non-contributory pension, subsidised accommodation, wraparound childcare, incremental pay, and a range of allowances on top of basic salary. The non-financial aspects of the offer are also highly valued.

Looking forward, we received the latest report from the independent Armed Forces’ Pay Review Body (AFPRB) on 26 May. We will be publishing it and announcing our response to their recommendations before the Summer Recess.