airpolice,
The majority of government department spending cuts start from Apr 2011, on the basis the government spending review was held in Oct 2010. These cuts include such things as no pay rise for public sector workers, decreased departmental budgets, etc...
Since the Harrier fleet was supposed to disband in Apr 2011, (notice the date?) but is actually stopping flying in Dec 10, I expect (even allowing for 1 x 16 ship and a paint job or two), they are saving more money than was planned (3 months of flying saved vs 16 sorties and some paint?). On another thread Dominie flying was said to be stopping in Jan 2011. Ark Royal is on the way to be scrapped (mothballed), etc....
I think the taxpayers can be satisified that they are getting savings from MOD well before the general Apr 2011 date thank you.....