vecvechookattack,
Hmmmmm, I don't understand the RN rules but it makes sense that if you are in port in a foreign place, an LOA should be issued. Do you get a "being at sea allowance?" I don't know so please let me know.
As far as the land forces are concerned, you should get an allowance (LSSA) if you are deployed, but if you are posted to Germany/ Gib/ Cyprus (look at that, I've almost exhausted the o'seas posting choices), Living Overseas Allowance is crucial for many to their survival.
Many people, and I will use Cyprus as an example again, are financially penalised by exchange rates and Cyprus's attempts to bring themselves into line with EU tax harmonisation. i.e everything goes up in price.
The result is that families struggle (mainly the JR's) to cope with everyday living.
I think that the replies so far disagree with LOA reduction and moreso, the reasoning behind it.
I for one would certainly like to speak to the people who chaired the review as I never saw any paperwork asking me about life in Cyprus.
More thoughts please.
Exleckie