Claims of rape on nuclear submarines see the Royal Navy’s probe into misogyny aboard the vessels halted
The Royal Navy’s probe into misogyny aboard nuclear submarines has come to a halt after several allegations of serious crimes – including multiple rapes – came to light.
First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Ben Key began the investigation after the Daily Mail exposed claims of mistreatment including harassment and bullying in the Submarine Service last autumn.
But now it can be revealed that the inquiry is on hold after the Navy was forced to refer several matters to the civilian police.
It is expected to remain on pause until the conclusion of police investigations and any ensuing court proceedings – a process which could take as long as two years.
Allegations of at least three rapes and a number of sexual assaults were made by those who gave evidence to the internal inquiry, it is understood.
First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Ben Key (right, pictured with King Charles III) began the investigation after the Daily Mail exposed claims of mistreatment including harassment and bullying in the Submarine Service last autumn
Several have already branded the probe a ‘whitewash’ and the main whistleblower, Sophie Brook (pictured), said she will no longer cooperate with it
A Navy source confirmed several of its personnel were being investigated by the police after reports of ‘unlawful incidents’, adding: ‘We’re doing everything we can to expedite these investigations and draw closure on these abhorrent events.’
The potentially lengthy delay is likely to cause distress to some victims, many of whom have been waiting years for justice.
Several have already branded the probe a ‘whitewash’ and the main whistleblower, Sophie Brook, said she will no longer cooperate with it.
Police action may take years
The 31-year-old, one of the first women to join the service, said she feared the Navy may ‘scapegoat’ certain personnel in order to preserve the reputation of the Submarine Service.
Ms Brook, of West Sussex, added: ‘It seems the Royal Navy is playing a waiting game, hoping that if they don’t do anything about these problems for long enough then they will just go away.’
Ms Brook, who was left suicidal by her ordeal, is among several women to speak out about abuse in the service. She reported how she was sexually assaulted, punched and abused by senior officers after joining the fleet in 2014.
Some incidents were referred to the military police but she was warned her case could take two years.
‘The Royal Navy police admitting it would likely take years to get a case to court proves they simply aren’t interested in the truth or justice for the women involved,’ added Ms Brook.
Serving personnel involved in the criminal investigations are believed to have been prevented from being deployed on sea patrols so they can assist the police.
The Royal Navy said: ‘This investigation is ongoing and therefore it would be inappropriate to comment further.’
