So,
Lets have a look at the reasoning behind the Senior Service. Forgive the thick Pongo, but who exactly are they trying to retain and for what reason?
So all of the Lt Cdrs that had already reached their IPP before the 1 Apr 07 dont get the 'Senior Officer' FRI and those that are still Lts dont get anything at all now unless they manage to get promoted and selected for new commission (is that the inference with FTC - sorry not too sure what that is, but gather a permanent career shiney bum/exec profile) by Mar 10.
So a very specific target audience indeed by the RN for their 'Pinch Point'. Some have already blown it and are probably packing bags and others are nowhere near IPP or promotion - and as the junior joes on the Sqn will just stag on between Basra and Bastion.
Those left now enter the Big Brother House for promotion. On your marks, get set.... go! I can see the RN poster rubbing his hand with glee as those that want the dosh will now sell their souls for any job to get the right profile.
Dont get me wrong - there is obviously a plan there from the RN and at least it knows the age group, experience and type of people it wants to retain.
The AAC have done something very similar - or answer B!