Defence Secretary makes 'unacceptable' situation with accommodation a priority in Christmas letter to families
Addressing the "unacceptable" situation surrounding military families' accommodation has become a priority, according to the Defence Minister in his letter to the loved ones of serving personnel.
In a recent letter seen by Forces News, Ben Wallace has praised the work of serving personnel around the country, particularly for their service during the Queen's Platinum Jubilee in June and her state funeral in September.
"With the eyes of the world upon them, the 12,000 Armed Forces personnel who were involved in the enactment of the Jubilee celebrations and Operation London Bridge performed their role with admirable professionalism," his letter said.
"I am proud of the example our Armed Forces set on such poignant occasions."
Mr Wallace has also addressed the growing concerns around the cost-of-living crisis, and the accommodation situation relating to the families of serving personnel.
He wrote: "Difficult times lie ahead, with the cost-of-living crisis impacting all of us.
"We are reviewing over 40 allowances to provide you with more flexibility in working arrangements to support different home circumstances.
"In response to rising fuel prices, a 7% uplift has been applied to commuting allowances from 1 August.
"To support our overseas personnel, a review into Get You Home (Overseas) is currently ongoing; our aim is that rates will become more reactive to current costs borne by personnel.
"We have frozen the daily food charge for this year, and we have limited to 1% the increase in Service Family Accommodation charges," the letter added.
The Defence Secretary also addressed feedback the Government had received from military families regarding their eligibility and entitlement to allowances and benefits.
On accommodation entitlement, he wrote: "We committed to widening accommodation entitlement so that families can also benefit from subsidised accommodation.
"However, we know that we don't always get things right and that many of you are experiencing problems with your accommodation.
"It is, therefore, a high priority for myself and the ministerial team to address this unacceptable situation.
"In September, Defence Infrastructure Organisation tasked each supplier to introduce a robust rectification plan, owned at Board level, to set out how it will rapidly bring performance up to acceptable levels, and progress is being actively tracked."
His letter ended: "In all aspects of our work, we strive to recognise and match the level of dedication you afford to our Armed Forces personnel and the United Kingdom in aid of protecting our people, territories, values, and interests, both at home and overseas.
"Personally, and on behalf of the nation, I want to thank you all for everything you do in support of your loved ones. I wish you and your family, wherever they may be, a very happy and safe Christmas and New Year."
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