The allowance given to AFM member from the rank of Major down has been increased from €279 to €627 as from the start of this year, the Home Affairs Ministry said today. It also said that police officers will save up to €390 on tax on extra duties.

The ministry has been under fire after it emerged that AFM members would only be paid a €110 allowance for extra hours worked during the November summits.

The ministry said that skilled soldiers would also be paid at the highest rate for manual work. Between 300 and 400 soldiers would benefit from this measure.

On police officers it said that the previous 25% tax rate on extra duties has been brought down to 15%. More than 420 police officers are registered to carry out extra duties.

Home Affairs Minister Carmelo Abela said these measures were among a number of initiatives aimed at improving working conditions for members of the uniformed services. They are also a form of recognition for their hard work. The uniformed services, Mr Abela said, would see further investment throughout the coming year.