By GB News (World News) | Created at 2026-10-02 03:11:02 | Updated at 2026-10-02 04:13:38
1 hour ago
The former head of the Royal Navy has been stripped of his knighthood over an alleged affair with a junior officer.
Ben Key said he had been informed of the result of an honours review relating to his conduct, and fully accepted the "outcome and the need for accountability".
Last year, he became the only First Sea Lord to have had his service terminated after an investigation which determined his behaviour had "fallen far short of [the] values and standards" expected.
But friends and colleagues have been surprised by the severity of Mr Key's punishment, given his "lifetime of exceptional service".
Mr Key, a married father-of-three, said: "More than a year after stepping down, I have been informed of the outcome of an honours review relating to my previous conduct.
"I fully accept the outcome and the need for accountability, especially for those of us who have held leadership positions in the armed services.
"It was a great privilege to serve my career in the Royal Navy.
"I deeply regret what happened and the impact my actions have had on others.
"I remain very grateful for the support of my family and friends throughout this past year.
Ben Key said he fully accepted the removal of his honours and deeply regretted his actions
PA
Mr Key joined the Navy as a cadet in 1984 and was appointed as First Sea Lord in 2021.
He received a CBE in 2016 and granted a knighthood in 2021. Both honours have now been stripped.
A senior female Navy officer told The Times: "Although I understand the process, it’s hugely disappointing that a lifetime of exceptional service has been disregarded because of one mistake and to many of us he remains someone we hold in high regard."
General Sir Patrick Sanders, who led the Army during Mr Key's tenure at the helm of the Navy, told The Sun the former First Sea Lord was one of the most "popular, respected, brave and operationally tested" officers he had served with.
"He may have lost his medals, but I'll always admire and respect him," he added.
General Sir Patrick Sanders said he still admired and respected his former colleague
MOD
Allies of the 60-year-old Mr Key were shocked at his suspension and removal from the military at the time, accusing superiors of a "stich-up".
When he was first appointed, he repeatedly vowed to "root out" inappropriate sexual behaviour.
In 2022, he said: "Those who do not wish to serve in accordance with the values and standards of life in the United Kingdom's armed forces will be removed."
Mr Key has been accused of breaking the "service test", which forbids sexual relationships between commanders and their subordinates.
The alleged affair is said to have been exposed when the husband of the woman involved filed a complaint.
PICTURED: General Sir Patrick Sanders, seen behind and to the left of Ben Key (centre) during the Coronation Procession of Charles III, May 2023
WIKIMEDIA / KATIE CHAN
There was no suggestion of criminal behaviour and the alleged relationship was said to have been consensual.
A Royal Navy spokesman said: "The Royal Navy holds its personnel to the highest standards of conduct.
"Any allegations of unacceptable behaviour are thoroughly investigated, and those found guilty will face serious consequences.
"This includes referral to the Cabinet Office Forfeitures Committee for the withdrawal of state honours."
