javaguzzisti
LE
Not just available but positively encouraged 35 years ago.The MOD has changed, and not for the better. Presumably the lads can't use vehicle lifts and pits on the weekends and evening to work on their own cars any more?
Or sign out a 4 tonner to move furniture? Or borrow tentage? Or 6' GS tables? Or a minibus?
The MOD has all this kit, and for a (very) few shekels, they could massively increase morale, yet it seems to be career-ending. It would be a great thing for retention if the MOD allowed short-term private use of military assets and facilities (where appropriate) and the assets were not required for military/naval use (ie out of hours), at nil cost to MOD other than wear-and-tear.
"Sir, my son's scout troop are having a camping weekend. Would it be possible to borrow a 4 tonner and some tentage, tables and chairs for the weekend?" "No problem, Chalky. I'll jack it up with the SQMS, go see him Friday. Do you want the cookset trailer? Just make sure it's all back in the garages Sunday night". "Cheers, Sir".
Blimey, I am that old.