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Royal Navy probe into misogyny, bullying and sexual harassment on submarines branded a ‘whitewash’

8 months ago 2 min read

A Royal Navy investigation into misogyny, bullying and sexual harassment aboard nuclear submarines has been branded a ‘whitewash’ by whistleblowers.

First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Ben Key launched the inquiry after the Mail uncovered claims of mistreatment up and down the chain of command within the submarine service final October.

However now the principle whistleblower, Sophie Brook, 31, who welcomed the investigation, has withdrawn her assist for the probe.

The previous lieutenant questioned delays within the course of and accused the Navy of attempting to ‘scapegoat’ one senior officer in a cynical try to guard the fame of the remainder of the service.

Ms Brook mentioned she feared the inquiry’s findings will probably be a ‘whitewash’ and she is going to not co-operate with it.

Sophie Brook (pictured) who had welcomed the investigation, has now withdrawn her assist for the probe

The previous lieutenant (pictured) questioned delays within the course of and accused the Navy of attempting to ‘scapegoat’ one senior officer

First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Ben Key (pictured right here in 2021) launched the inquiry after the Mail uncovered claims of mistreatment up and down the chain of command within the submarine service final October

‘Having battled for girls within the service for shut on 11 years now, in the end ruining my profession, desires, fame and bringing me to the purpose of suicide, the time has come for me to surrender and transfer ahead with my life,’ she mentioned.

One other whistleblower, who reported being raped by a fellow submariner solely to face a horrific bullying marketing campaign, mentioned she additionally felt let down by the investigation.

The lady mentioned she endured a six-hour interview reliving her trauma whereas giving proof to the inquiry however has but to obtain any type of apology.

‘It has been an enormous ordeal talking out and it now feels prefer it may need all been for nothing,’ she mentioned.

‘They appear to be dragging their heels, nothing has modified and I’ve not heard something since giving proof.’

The ladies had been amongst a number of whistleblowers to talk out about mistreatment and abuse.

They revealed how submariners had compiled a ‘crush dying rape listing’ – itemizing ladies within the order they’d be assaulted within the occasion of a catastrophic occasion.

A Navy spokesman mentioned: ‘The First Sea Lord has been clear – any exercise which falls in need of the best of requirements the Royal Navy units itself is completely unacceptable.

‘The investigation is ongoing and it could be inappropriate to remark additional.’