Credit where it’s due, I think the AFPRB have played a blinder on this one. A bit like when they snuck the extra 1% raise a few years ago.
From a political point of view, the headline figure of 5% looks reasonable and restrained in these difficult times, especially compared to the demands being made by other public sector workers.
Meanwhile, the flat-rate £1k added to all pay increments essentially works out as a >12% pay rise for those at the bottom through to >5% for those at Brigadier \ Air Commodore level.
In sum, I wasn’t expecting more than 5-6% and I’m actually pleasantly surprised by my +6% overall rise. Real terms pay cut? Yes. Adding a fair chunk to my non-contributory pension? Also yes.