I remember as a young LCpl being very strapped for cash. I was married, which was my choice, but I never felt able to splash cash about. Perhaps times really have changed and squaddies get loads of dosh but somehow I doubt it and i still feel that there is a case for protecting them despite your argument of supply and demand and low expectations of our recruits.
I remember as a young un the wages didn't always stretch the month.
However compared to alot of mates who were on YTS etc I was well off
I would wager that across an age range now young soldiers are stil well off compared to alot of their mates.
On Telic 4 the young troopers seemed to have a fair bit banked due to tour allowance and bonuses etc
I would say it's never been a beter time to be in.
I still don't undrestand where you are getting pay cut from?
They used to give you a pay rise and get if back in food and acommodation but to be honest you never noticed anyway only what fell in the bank.