Clause 1 - Pension and compensation schemes: armed and reserve forces
Armed Forces (Pensions and Compensation) Bill
3:30 pm
Mr Desmond Swayne (New Forest West, Conservative)
That is a very interesting point, because the improved accrual rate for which hon. Members voted is funded by greater contributions. The over-arching architecture of the pension settlement that the Government have drawn up for the armed forces is one of cost neutrality. It would be interesting to know whether the Government explored the question of inviting members of the armed forces to consider whether they would wish to make significantly increased contributions, perhaps in the form of a larger abatement of their pay, to secure improved benefits. Was that ever considered?