The Ministry of Defence has confirmed that discussions are underway to reform pay structures, crewing models and fleet support for the Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA), after Gosport MP Caroline Dinenage raised concerns about pay, staffing and readiness.
In a written response dated 18 December, Louise Sandher-Jones MP, Minister for Veterans and People, said the Government recognises the RFA’s operational role and that efforts to secure a new pay settlement are ongoing.
“No pay offer has yet been made to the RFA for this financial year,” she wrote. “The MOD is in discussion with the Maritime Trade Unions, the Cabinet Office, and His Majesty’s Treasury to progress this matter as soon as possible so we can make a competitive pay offer that supports the RFA and its modernisation.”
The department is considering removing the RFA from the Civil Service Pay Remit to classify it as a non-standard occupational group. Sandher-Jones said this would “better align RFA pay and rotational crewing models with its operational purpose and make it more competitive within the maritime sector, while maintaining affordability controls.”
Alongside pay reform, recruitment and retention measures are being developed. The letter cites work to shorten recruitment times, modernise allowances and update working practices. The MOD’s latest Biannual Civilian Personnel Report shows what Sandher-Jones called “positive indications of workforce recovery” across the last year.
On vessel readiness, the minister insisted that the RFA continues to meet tasking requirements. The retirement of RFA Wave Knight and RFA Wave Ruler “will not impact overall capability” as neither ship was planned for return to service. The newer Tide Class tankers are being used to support the Carrier Strike Group, including recent deployments on Operation Highmast.
Remaining Tide units are supporting UK homeland defence and can be made available for wider tasking. The letter also confirms preparations for the introduction of three new Fleet Solid Support ships in the early 2030s, with steel cut for RFA Resurgent in December. According to Sandher-Jones, this represents “the renewal of a solid support capability which will provide the ammunition, stores and spares to sustain our global operations into the future.”
Responding to concerns about whether staffing and financial pressure could reduce operational availability, Sandher-Jones said the MOD is “fully committed to resolving matters constructively and in a way that supports the long-term capability and resilience of the RFA.” She added that she could not pre-empt the outcome of discussions on pay and conditions.
The letter concludes: “I hope this provides some reassurance that your concerns are being taken seriously and that the MOD is working diligently to achieve a positive resolution for the RFA.” Caroline Dinenage said she will continue to follow the issue, adding that she wants to ensure RFA personnel can continue supporting Royal Navy operations worldwide.