asked the Minister for Defence if he is aware that Army pensioners have to wait a period of approximately nine months before they are entitled to pension increases arising from the national understanding; and if he will ensure that these pensioners receive their increases at the same time as other beneficiaries under the national understanding.
Written Answers. - Army Pensioners.
340.
Retired pay and pensions payable to former members of the Permanent Defence Force are increased from 1 July each year in line with the level of increases granted to public service pensioners generally.
With regard to Army personnel who retired on or after 1 October 1980, the position is that the amending Defence Forces (Pensions) Scheme required to reflect in pensions the national understanding pay increase granted since that date is in course of preparation. The scheme will be completed quickly and payment at the increased rates will be issued to any personnel concerned. They will already be in receipt of payment at the rates appropriate to 30 September 1980.