Admiral Sir Ben Key, the head of the Royal Navy, has been removed from his duties while under investigation over allegations of misconduct. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) announced the move but declined to provide further details.
Allegations of Misconduct
According to reports in The Sun newspaper, Admiral Key is suspected of having an affair with a subordinate. This relationship could potentially breach military rules regarding relationships between superiors and subordinates.
An MoD spokesperson stated, "We do not comment on speculation or ongoing investigations. It would be inappropriate to comment further at this time."
Background
Admiral Key had stepped back from his role due to private reasons ahead of his planned retirement later this year as First Sea Lord. He took up the post in 2021 and was set to leave office when he reaches mandatory retirement age next month.
Military Guidelines on Relationships
Senior officers can be removed from command if there is reasonable suspicion of a sexual relationship with someone more junior in their chain of command. Such relationships are frowned upon as they can represent an abuse of power and contravene military service codes outlined within NATO guidelines.
Interim Leadership
The MoD has confirmed that Admiral Sir Tony Radakin will take over as First Sea Lord until Admiral Key’s return or until another appointment is made by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, following advice from Defence Secretary Ben Wallace and Chief of General Staff General Sir Patrick Sanders.
A source close to Admiral Radakin mentioned, "He will continue as Chief Of The Naval Staff for now, but it’s unclear how long he’ll stay in post." Admiral Radakin was appointed First Sea Lord last year after taking over as Chief Of The Naval Staff following Admiral Sir Ben’s promotion into the role two years ago.
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