A Federation is inevitable, and necessary to stop the rot. The only reason the government gets away with the disgraceful state of affairs at present is that they have a media monopoly on the Armed Forces. The DIN attempted to turn the screw further and gag comments on all aspects of Service life (including terms and conditions) and use of internet posting boards. BAFF will provide an independent voice for sailors, soldiers and airmen with regard to terms and conditions of service - overstretch, lack of harmony time, shoddy FQs, low pay for junior ranks etc. The BAFF model is designed to avoid straying into operational issues, in order not to undermine operational effectiveness. However, that area is now nicely covered by the Collins ruling which gives personnel some legal protection, and should lessen the chance of future deaths occuring through non-existent or unfit equipment.