There is a question that has long perplexed us reservists and has seemingly been ignored by the army remuneration policy team for almost a year.
We’ve been trying to figure out whether part-time soldiers are entitled to meals-out expenses (MOE) claims. Interpretation of the policy varies greatly. I know this because I was told I was entitled to claim it in one of my previous reserve units, however my current regiment administration officer says I’m not. I would be grateful if you could help me determine what the correct entitlement is.
I posted the question on Defence Connect and while the wider community did respond, including a senior Naval Reserve officer, there was no consensus on the matter. – Name and address supplied
Lt Col Christopher Prior, SO1 Exploit, Personnel Directorate, Army Headquarters, replies: I would like to break my response into two parts.
Whether reservists are entitled to MOE: In short, yes. In JSP 752, chapter five, section four it states that MOE is an entitlement primarily aimed at single/unaccompanied service persons and members of the volunteer reserve, providing that they meet all other eligibility criteria.
Interpretation of the policy varies greatly: This perhaps tells us we can be clearer in the language used within the MOE section of the policy document. The remuneration policy team will conduct a review to see if we might simplify the language and layout to enable clearer decision-making on eligibility.
That said, as with all policy, it is important that when deciding on this matter the policy section is read in its entirety and that personnel do not fall foul of picking out certain paragraphs within the section without due consideration to others.
To quote the policy, the aim of MOE is to contribute towards the additional costs of regularly purchasing meals at a commercial retail outlet necessarily incurred by service personnel whose only source of food would normally be from a service messing facility, and are routinely prevented from doing so as a result of their duties at their assignment station.
We must be mindful that there are personnel on many varying types of reserve terms and conditions of service, employed and engaged in various ways across the armed forces, who will be eligible or ineligible for MOE depending on their circumstances.
My letter published in April’s edition highlighted the ongoing issue of poor maintenance of the reserve estate. Unfortunately, there has been no improvement since then.
Reserve Forces and Cadets Association North West and the contractor, Vivo, have still not appointed a grounds maintenance firm, a situation that has prevailed since this contract began.
The situation across our properties in this part of the country is nothing short of disgraceful.
The condition of our Army Reserve Centres is unacceptable — overgrown grass, unkempt grounds, and a general appearance of abandonment. I
t reflects poorly not only on the two parties I’ve already mentioned, but on the Defence Infrastructure Organisation.
It’s embarrassing when the surrounding areas, maintained by local councils, are tidy and presentable in stark contrast to our military facilities that look derelict and forgotten.
This is not just a matter of appearance — it’s a matter of pride, professionalism and our basic standards. Those in charge should hang their heads in shame for allowing this to continue. I call on them to take immediate action and restore our sites to the standard befitting the UK’s armed forces. Let’s sort this out. – Name and address supplied
