Personnel policy comes before new equipment announcements in this proposed review. Starting from the £17,000 base-pay figure shown for new entrants, the suggested minimum is roughly £21,000 to £24,000. Higher earnings through specialisms do not remove the need for a viable basic wage, particularly in the lower ranks. An alternative would exempt service earnings from income tax and National Insurance, although its cost relative to a pay increase is left unresolved. Both proposals aim to make military income sufficient for ordinary bills and family life, since patriotism alone cannot sustain recruitment and retention.
Chapter · 5:39-10:53
Pay is the foundation of recruitment and retention
A proposed defence review begins with higher base pay because patriotism cannot substitute for a viable income or retain skilled personnel.