"Where it Hits, It Will Hurt"

Dawn McCafferty, Chairman of the RAF FF, said of yesterdays Allowances Review, "On the up side, in all honesty, not as draconian as we had feared but still a sharp intake of breath for some, particularly those who claim a combination of effected allowances, those in London, and those serving overseas on a permanent basis. But this is going to hit some harder than others and where it hits, it will hurt. Depending on individual circumstances, these cuts may well make the difference between a junior Serviceperson and his/her family 'just getting by' and tipping over into debt and financial crisis, particularly if they have children and the partner does not work. When combined with a 2-year pay freeze, the increase in VAT, soaring fuel prices, base closures and a forthcoming redundancy programme, these cuts will convince many Service personnel and their families that they are not valued and that their quality of life is being eroded to such a degree that a military career is no longer attractive...

More information »