The Forces’ shame

The conclusions of an in-depth study into allegations of inappropriate behaviour in the Armed Forces will make for some uncomfortable reading for the top brass. It finds that the British military suffers from unacceptable levels of sexism, racism and bullying, and lays the blame for this regrettable state of affairs squarely on the “pack of white, middle-aged men” who are responsible for running the Armed Forces. The findings of the inquiry, conducted by the incoming Chief of the Air Staff, are all the more concerning because the current generation of recruits includes a greater proportion of black, Asian and other minority groups than ever before.

It goes without saying that anyone signing up for a military career should expect to undergo a rigorous and challenging training process. Those in the Armed Forces can, after all, expect to find themselves serving in some of the world’s most hostile environments. But there is a fine line between setting high standards and senior officers mistreating those under their command. In many cases, the report finds, inappropriate conduct towards subordinates is “rarely considered to be malicious”, and the use of inappropriate and offensive language is the result of a lack of understanding of how it may be perceived.

At a time when all three services are struggling to maintain recruitment levels, such conduct is no longer acceptable. If we expect our soldiers, sailors and airmen to attain the highest levels of military achievement and discipline, we also need to show them dignity and respect. To succeed in the modern age, the Forces must demonstrate that they are tolerant and inclusive towards all those who volunteer to serve Queen and Country.