Royal Navy chief apologises for misogyny and bullying in submarine service

The head of the Royal Navy has apologised after an investigation found “misogyny, bullying and other unacceptable behaviours” in the submarine service.

In 2022, Admiral Sir Ben Key, the First Sea Lord and head of the Royal Navy, ordered an investigation into allegations made by former lieutenant Sophie Brook, who described a “constant campaign of sexual bullying”.

Ms Brook, who has since left the submarine service, said “multiple people” had contacted her with similar concerns after she first went public with her accusations.

In a statement published on Friday, Sir Ben said: “The investigation has confirmed misogyny, bullying and other unacceptable behaviours did occur during the investigation period, and this is intolerable.”

The First Sea Lord said Ms Brook had made several requests for redress during the investigation process, which she gave evidence to.

Sir Ben said: “Those that are within my gift to offer – I have. When I met with Ms Brook this morning, I apologised to her personally and unreservedly, praising her courage in coming forward.

“As the head of the Royal Navy, today I also offer a public apology, both to Ms Brook and to any personnel – past or present – that have been subject to any form of unacceptable behaviour during their time in service. I am truly sorry.”

He added: “We must be better than this and do better than we have.”

A heavily redacted final report of the investigation into allegations across the submarine service listed multiple incidents of abuse and harassment by male submariners, some of whom were senior officers, against their female colleagues.

Among the most serious were “at least” one report of rape, while others included lewd comments and sexual gestures.

Administrative action, “up to and including discharge from the Royal Navy”, has been taken against “several individuals”, according to an executive summary published alongside the full report.

In a statement provided to Sky News, Ms Brook said she “remains concerned about the Navy’s commitment to delivering meaningful change”.

She added: “It is my hope that this report is not just a token gesture but a starting point for real substantive change.

“I came forward not just to see justice for myself but to shine a light on a culture that for too long has been permitted to thrive within some of the most elite branches of the Armed Forces.”

Published: 04/10/2024 by Radio NewsHub