The head of the Royal Navy, Admiral Ben Key, has been suspended from his duties as he faces an investigation regarding allegations of misconduct. This significant development has been reported by various media outlets, though the Ministry of Defence has remained tight-lipped about the specifics of the inquiry.
In a statement, the Ministry of Defence indicated that they could not provide additional information regarding the nature of the allegations. However, reports from the Sun suggest that Admiral Key is being investigated for purported involvement in an affair with a female subordinate.
Background on Admiral Key’s suspension
Earlier this week, the Ministry revealed that Admiral Key had “stepped back due to private reasons,” as reported by the Financial Times. Sources close to the situation have clarified that this decision is not connected to the forthcoming government strategic defense review, which is anticipated to be released soon.
Admiral Key, who has served as the head of the Royal Navy since 2021, was expected to retire this summer. His upcoming retirement had already initiated the search for his successor.
Previous controversies within the Royal Navy
In a previous incident last year, Admiral Key issued an unreserved apology for the “intolerable” levels of misogyny reported within the Submarine Service. This apology followed several investigations that brought to light serious issues of sexual harassment, bullying, and assault directed at women in the Navy.
“The intolerable treatment of women within our ranks must be addressed,” said Key during his apology.
The ongoing investigation into Admiral Key’s conduct adds another layer of complexity to the challenges faced by the Royal Navy as it seeks to address and rectify its internal culture.