Bullying and misogyny in Royal Navy - a shameful episode

Women in the Submarine Service have suffered bullying and misogyny, a Royal Navy investigation has found.

The misogyny and bullying - and other totally unacceptable behaviour -  took place "amongst all ranks" the report said, after a two-year-long investigation.

The allegations investigated in the report were made by number of women covered a period between 2014 and 2020.

Whistleblower Sophie Brook made claims about her treatment while serving with the Royal Navy, first prompting the review in 2022.

In total, the Navy said it had conducted 28 separate investigations leading to the discharge of 21 individuals, with four being reduced in rank and six facing disciplinary or administrative action.

In a statement released on Friday, Navy chief, the First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Ben Key said the recommendations from the investigation had been accepted in full, including the establishment of a new head of culture, alongside changes to training in the Submarine Service.

Responding the to the report, Hilary Meredith-Beckham said:

“This appalling conduct has absolutely no place in any walk of life. Those responsible should hang their head in shame. It is a shameful episode. The military is very much a closed society often out of touch with the realities of the outside world and the workplace. Anyone who has suffered any form of abuse should contact my office for help and assistance.”