Commons Sense

House of Commons · Written Ministerial Statement

Update on the Government Response to Protecting Those Who Protect Us: 'Women in the Armed Forces from Recruitment to Civilian Life’

19 July 2022 · Ministry of Defence

Proposed by Ben Wallace Con Wyre and Preston North

Veterans

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

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At a glance

Key points

  • The minister announces the publication of three new policies and a strategy to address unacceptable sexual behaviour in the Armed Forces.
  • The Zero Tolerance to Unacceptable Sexual Behaviour policy aims to reinforce existing measures to improve the safety of women in the military.
  • The Strategy for Tackling Sexual Offending in Defence is designed to further enhance the protection and support for women from recruitment to civilian life.

Issue summary

The statement provides an update on developments since the publication of a report on protecting women in the Armed Forces from recruitment to civilian life, highlighting new policies and a strategy to address unacceptable sexual behaviour.

Action requested

The minister announces the publication of three new documents: the Zero Tolerance to Unacceptable Sexual Behaviour policy, the Zero Tolerance approach to Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (SEA) policy, and the Strategy for Tackling Sexual Offending in Defence. These initiatives reinforce existing measures aimed at improving the inclusivity and safety of women in the Armed Forces.

Key facts

  • The statement marks one year since the publication of a report on protecting women in the Armed Forces.
  • New policies include Zero Tolerance to Unacceptable Sexual Behaviour, Zero Tolerance approach to SEA, and a Strategy for tackling sexual offending.
  • These policies build upon measures introduced in March 2022 regarding mandatory discharge for those convicted of sexual offences.
  • The new policy on unacceptable sexual behaviour applies to all UK Armed Forces personnel and emphasizes victim/survivor support.
  • The SEA policy prohibits sexual activity involving the abuse of power when personnel are working abroad.
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