Military veterans told they owe thousands of pounds over clerical error
Hundreds of UK military veterans are facing significant pension cuts after the Ministry of Defence identified overpayments caused by clerical errors. Many veterans are being asked to repay thousands of pounds, with some facing six-figure debts due to system failures.
Why it matters
This highlights a systemic failure in government pension administration that is causing financial distress for vulnerable retirees who relied on these funds.
Image source, BBC News Image caption, Royal Artillery veteran Ray Lawton has been ordered to repay £8,000
Hundreds of former members of the military have had their pensions slashed after receiving letters telling them to repay thousands of pounds because of a clerical error.
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) confirmed to the BBC that more than 1000 retired service personnel are being pursued for debts. The majority, 335 veterans, were overpaid a total of £5.1m as a result of incorrect National Insurance calculations.
The Forces Pension Society said it is aware of a small number of veterans whose debts were wiped after raising a formal complaint.
Ray Lawton, 70, was told in July he owed £8,000 following six years of overpayments. Days later, his monthly military pension was cut from £550 to £365.
"I haven't got £8,000 to pay out," said Lawton, who served 16 years in the Royal Artillery.
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