To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what steps the Government is taking in respect of the recommendations of the Armed Forces Pay Review Board. (270476)

On 31 March 2009 I announced the Government’s full acceptance of the recommendations contained in the 2009 report of the Armed Forces’ Pay Review Body (AFPRB). The AFPRB recommended an increase of 2.8 per cent. in basic pay for all service personnel, including the reserves, in addition to increases in the rates of some allowances and charges. These changes were effective from 1 April 2009. The AFPRB also recommended the introduction of new pay spines for Royal Navy divers and service nurses from 1 August 2009.

Copies of the AFPRB report are held in the House of Commons Library.