The leader of the Royal Navy has been suspended pending an investigation.
Admiral Sir Ben Key has been asked to step down from his position as First Sea Lord, as confirmed by sources from the Ministry of Defence on Friday.
He was notably absent from the senior military gathering on Monday that celebrated the 80th anniversary of VE Day. It appears that the Second Sea Lord, Vice Admiral Martin Connell, is currently managing affairs until a permanent successor is appointed.
Earlier this week, the Ministry of Defence indicated that Key had departed for “private reasons”.
Key began his career in the Royal Navy in 1984 as a university cadet after graduating from Royal Holloway, University of London. Early in his career, he served globally after qualifying as a helicopter crew and a major warrior.
He achieved the rank of Vice Admiral in February 2016 and became the commander of the Royal Navy’s fleet in 2021, later overseeing joint operations.
Throughout his career, he has commanded four ships, including Mine Hunter HMS Santown, frigates HMS Iron Duke and HMS Lancaster, as well as the aircraft carrier HMS Illustrations.
Prior to his leadership of the Navy, Key, a veteran of the Iraq War, had received US bronze stars and managed operations in Afghanistan.
In his role, he was the head of the Navy Staff and chairman of the Navy Committee, accountable for the effectiveness, efficiency, and morale of the service under the Secretary of State.
Last year, he issued an apology for the “unbearable” misogyny observed in submarine services after numerous investigations into sexual harassment, bullying, and assault within the Navy.
Key expressed his sincere regret to women affected by “misconduct, bullying, and other unacceptable behavior” during his service, emphasizing that improvements are necessary.
The Ministry of Defence stated on Friday: “The investigation is ongoing and it is inappropriate to comment at this time.”
