Military Sexual Assault Victims Gain Stronger Protections in New Armed Forces Bill
Victims of sexual assault, domestic abuse, or stalking by serving military personnel will receive significantly enhanced protections under new legislation being introduced today. The measures form part of the Armed Forces Bill, which receives its first Commons debate, aiming to toughen the disciplinary code governing the armed forces.
Enhanced Powers for Service Police
Service police will be handed greater investigative powers designed to accelerate the process of dealing with allegations. Crucially, officers will now be able to authorise the detention of suspects before charge, a power that currently rests solely with a commanding officer. This change is intended to remove potential delays and ensure swifter action against perpetrators.
Alongside this, new protective orders will be introduced to allow for immediate intervention to safeguard victims from further harm. The government will also issue stronger guidance to help victims decide whether they wish their case to be tried in civilian courts or through the military justice system.
Government Commitment to Ending Abuse
Veterans Minister Louise Sandher-Jones, who served in the Army, stated: "Having served in the Army, I recognise the challenges victims can face when coming forward to report offences. We will ensure there is nowhere to hide for those who commit sexual violence."
She emphasised that "unacceptable and criminal behaviour has no place in our Armed Forces" and confirmed the Ministry of Defence's role in delivering the government's commitment to halve violence against women and girls, while acknowledging that abuse can affect anyone.
Tragic Case Highlights Systemic Failures
The legislative push follows the tragic case of Royal Artillery Gunner Jaysley Beck, who took her own life in December 2021, just months after failures to properly investigate her allegations of sexual assault. The 19-year-old was assaulted by Warrant Officer Michael Webber during a training exercise in Hampshire in July 2021.
An inquest heard that Gunner Beck, based at Larkhill barracks in Wiltshire, did not report "relentless harassment" by her line manager, Bombardier Ryan Mason, after losing faith in the complaints system. The Army has since apologised, admitting it did not do enough to support her. Webber, 43, who has left the army, was jailed for six months last year.
Widespread Problem Revealed by Official Survey
The need for reform is underscored by an official survey last year which found that two thirds of women serving in the armed forces had experienced sexualised behaviour, including groping, leering, and harassment. The Ministry of Defence, which commissioned the probe, described the findings as "wholly unacceptable" and has unveiled plans for a prevention scheme to tackle such behaviour.
Broader Reforms in the Armed Forces Bill
The Bill also seeks to enshrine the Armed Forces Covenant into law, legally protecting the rights and access to public services for military personnel, veterans, and their families. Furthermore, the government has significantly increased spending on veteran support, with funding set to treble from £11.6 million in 2023/24 to almost £37 million promised for 2025/2026.
These comprehensive reforms represent a determined effort to address systemic issues within the military justice and support systems, promising stronger safeguards for victims and a clearer path to justice.
