Today’s defence reporting includes articles on military pay and the release of the latest case load figures for the Iraq Historical Allegation Team. Also read more about Exercise Tractable 2016 on Salisbury Plain Training Area.
Military pay
The Daily Telegraph reports on a pay rise for members of the armed forces as recommended by the independent Armed Forces Pay Review Body. Our statement is here:
An MOD spokesperson said:
Armed Forces pay is reviewed regularly to ensure it remains fair, while personnel also enjoy a package of benefits including a non-contributory pension, progression pay and service accommodation. The Government has accepted the independent Armed Forces’ Pay Review Body’s proposal for a one per cent increase.
Support for Armed Forces
An opinion piece in the New Day discusses whether the UK does enough for its Armed Forces. The piece includes comments from the Royal British Legion and Johnny Mercer MP.
An MOD spokesperson said:
Our Armed Forces do a challenging job and we are committed to looking after those that have served their country. We recognise there are a small number who struggle, which is why the Government has a wide range of support schemes in place under the Armed Forces Covenant which was enshrined in law in 2011.
Iraq abuse
The Daily Mail reports on the latest caseload figures of the IHAT. The page lead says detectives have 40 new claims made by lawyers, and reports that several of the claims are allegations of unlawful killing. The article adds that Prime Minister David Cameron promised a crackdown on what it quotes as the legal “witch-hunt” against troops but adds the government is legally obliged to investigate claims under the Human Rights Act.
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