Councillor calls for big pay rise for servicemen and women

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Councillor Peter Clegg

Spotland and Falinge Councillor Peter Clegg is calling on the Government to award big pay rises to military personnel, many of whom are risking their lives on the Afghanistan frontline.

Councillor Clegg is backing calls to give the worst paid servicemen and women, who earn less than trainee police officers and fire-fighters, pay rises worth almost £6,000 a year.

Councillor Peter Clegg said: “Every day young men and women are putting their lives on the line, fighting in terrible conditions in Afghanistan. But what is their reward from the Government? Shockingly poor pay that leaves them on the poverty line and their families back at home hungry. Last week I even read the story of a Royal Marine hero who’d been forced to sell his medals to buy a home for his family. This is just not right. Our troops deserve a better deal and a government that is willing to stand up for them!”