WG
I now stand at a distance away from the MOD but work for HMG. If true (and other posters seem to back this up) this treatment is simply not acceptable in 2014 on a PJOB or MOB. There seems to have been a systemic failure - from Contracts Branch drafting the MAC contract to the line manager who should have dealt with gripes - but, I suspect, has b&gger-all leverage to effect change. On this point, just see how (little) authority a Stn Cdr has these days; personnel matters are effectively contracted out to CPAC in Glasgow; works matters are now fully within DIO; contractors do the engineering and contractors do much of the life support side of house, including catering. Last meal I had in a PAYD UK mess, about 4 months ago, wasn't fit for pigs, frankly.
If you think that all of the above is acceptable, well....so be it.