asked the Minister for Defence if he is satisfied that there is no conflict within the technical sections of the Army, between their military and technical role; if he will increase the rates of pay to take account of their dual role; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Soldier technicians, while primarily engaged on the duties of their particular trade, are also liable for military duties. There is, however, no conflict in this situation. Technicians receive additional pay related to their skills.

Will the Minister outline whether those enlisted in the Army as technicians are taken on primarily for a military purpose rather than for a trade purpose?

They are first of all soldiers. They are known as soldier-technicians and the technical side of their qualification is taken into account in determining their additional rate of pay for the technical expertise they possess. That is graded into three grades and ranges from sums of £11.89 per week down to £1.68 per week additional to the normal pay of soldiers.