* More Grenade Machine Guns for front line troops
* Soldiers visit Mastiff factory
* Eco-friendly dining for trainee sailors
* Pay rise for everyone in the Armed Forces
* Navy minehunters train off Gibraltar
Defence in the Media: 11 February 2008
Injury compensation
The Sunday Times has said the government’s pledge to improve compensation for soldiers wounded on operations as a “sham”, saying that only 24 claimants over three years will benefit. The Armed Forces Compensation Scheme is a no-fault scheme which, for the first time, provides a lump sum payment in service and, for more serious injury, a regular, tax-free index-linked payment. This can amount to hundreds of thousands of pounds over a lifetime. The standard of proof used in the scheme is the accepted approach of other schemes and no claim should fail where there is reasonable reliable evidence that injury is due to service.
Nuclear Test Study
The Daily Mirror has reported that the MOD has agreed funding for an extra study into the health of troops and their children and grandchildren who were used for nuclear testing in the 1950’s and 60’s. The MOD is willing to consider new scientific evidence subject to the peer-review of the Rowland and Busby studies. The peer-review process is important because it allows the independent scientific community to comment on the methodology of the studies and make recommendations for further research. This process should be completed shortly.
HMS Illustrious
It has been reported that HMS Illustrious has been forced back to port again for repairs. While alongside she will be conducting minor defect rectification and continuing her pre-deployment training.
Oil Rig bomb
There is widespread coverage in today’s press of yesterday’s evacuation of a north sea oil rig which involved RAF search and rescue helicopter crews as well as and Army bomb disposal unit being placed on standby.
Image of the day: 11 February 2008
Today – 11 February 2008
Veterans Minister, Derek Twigg, to attend Spanish War of Independence commemoration in Madrid.
A reception at Buckinghamshire County Council for servicemen from returning from Operations.
Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Glenn Torpy, to attend the Trenchard Memorial Service in Westminster Abbey, London.
HMS Tyne visits London, berthing alongside HMS Belfast.
Tomorrow – 12 February 2008
Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Glenn Torpy, to attend the Cadet Regional Activity Opening at RAF Linton-on-Ouse
The Royal Navy Merlin Force support the BBC’s Blue Peter presenters in their support of Sports Relief, by flying them between the four highest peaks in the UK.
RAF Experience Day at RAF Halton for potential recruits.
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