Don't Panic, Don't Panic: Where Is Cable's Figure From?

Where on earth does Vince Cable (right with a pre-pubescent Clogg) of the Lib Dems get his army wages figures from?

There are only two categories of squaddies who get less than the figure he quoted. These are University Cadet entrants at levels one and two, who are I think in effect students with their hols and weekends mapped out for them, and new other ranks entrants in assessment.

The Private at Level Three which Dr Cable quoted is paid either £18,657.72 (higher rate) or £16, 544.64 (lower rate). Level One Privates are all paid £15,677.04 and barring their assessment and initial training this is what they're all on as a bare minimum.

Where does Cable's £14,349.00 come from? And the figure of 66,000 being at or below that pay? Our figures are from the British Army pay scales for the year to 31 March 2008 as shared HERE. So there's even been a pay rise. VC - shame on you!