Ex-Royal Navy chief sacked as Defence Ministry issues statement

The head of the Royal Navy Admiral Sir Ben Key has been sacked following reports of an alleged affair with a subordinate. Key was suspended last month after allegations surfaced alleging that he had an affair with a married, junior female colleague.

An investigation found his behaviour fell "far short of the values and standards expected", resulting in the termination of his service and commission, the Ministry of Defence said. Chief of Defence Staff Admiral Sir Tony Radakin added: "We expect the highest standards of behaviour from our Service Personnel and our Civil Servants. We investigate all allegations of inappropriate behaviour and will take robust action against anyone found to have fallen short of our standards, regardless of their seniority."

Admiral Sir Ben said: "I deeply regret my conduct in the spring of last year, which fell well below the standard I set for myself and that which I set for the Royal Navy.

"As such, I fully accept the decision of the Defence Council.

"I am very sorry to those I have hurt personally, and I apologise to everyone who serves with the Royal Navy."

Key had been due to retire from his position this summer, after serving as the head of the Royal Navy since 2021, meaning that the search for his successor was already underway.

Last month, Royal Marines General Sir Gwyn Jenkins was appointed to the role by Defence Secretary John Healey, becoming the first non-sailor to lead the military's senior service.

On assuming command he said: "I feel extremely privileged to lead the exceptional sailors and marines of the Royal Navy at this pivotal time for UK Defence.

"Throughout my career, I have always been motivated by the vital role the Royal Navy has in keeping our nation safe.

"To do that now, we need to accelerate our return to a war fighting force that is ready for conflict, expand our modernisation efforts and deliver the Royal Navy our nation needs."

It brings a dishonourable end to Key's career having joined the forces in 1984 where he trained as a Principal Warfare Officer and saw service as a junior officer around the world in a variety of frigates and destroyers.

He was awarded the US Bronze Star in 2006 for his service in Baghdad and was made a Commander of the British Empire (CBE) in 2016 and a Knight Commander of the Order of the Bath (KCB) in 2021.