A better deal for our troops

Dave Hodgson was born on an army base where his father taught the children of soldiers and he is passionate in supporting the men and women of our armed services, who daily put their lives in danger for the freedom of our country.

13,000 members of the armed forces take home less than £17,000 each year.

Dave said, "When you are prepared to lay down your life for your country, you and you families deserve not only the respect of your fellow citizens but also a decent wage. Some service people and their families are living close to the poverty line and that's simply not right.

"Men and women, who serve their country at such great personal cost, deserve our respect and a decent wage.

"I'm backing the call for those starting in the armed forces to receive the same wages as those starting in the Police and Fire Service and I have already been gathering support here in Bedford Borough. Thank you to everyone who has signed my petition.

"Our armed forces are being sent to fight in treacherous conditions in Afghanistan and are still fighting in Iraq. It is time to stop short-changing our troops."

To back the campaign and help spread the word, please visit NickClegg.com/ArmedForcesPay.