The UK government has announced that British diplomats based in Buenos Aires and several other locations will no longer qualify for the hardship payment that has been paid for decades to staff in challenging posts.
The scheme has long rewarded civil servants posted to places that pose serious risks, such as Beirut, Pretoria and cities with high pollution levels. The separation of venues is defined by a list that is updated every few years. This week the FCDO removed Santiago, Panama City, Pyongyang, Bamako and Sarajevo, in addition to the two South‑American capitals, from the 144 sites that still receive extra allowance.
The list now includes a mixture of “trouble spots” and popular holiday destinations such as Bali and Rio de Janeiro, a move that has drawn criticism from Conservative figures who argue that taxpayers are footing the bill for bonuses in places that are not “dangerous”.
Foreign Secretary Henry Hollinrake said the scheme was “unfair on the taxpayer” and pledged to cut the civil service if the Conservatives return to power. He also pointed out that the Allowances have been in place for thirty years and “do not set new precedent.”
FCDO officials defended the policy by noting it is a duty of care for staff operating in difficult political and environmental environments. They stressed the compensation reflects the circumstances of the posting and parallels support offered in the private sector.
Senior FCDO minister Lord Wood of Anfield added that hardship assessments consider factors that may require staff to take additional respite or break for their physical or mental health.
