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<p>The Ministry of Defence and our Armed Forces are absolutely clear there is no place
for sexual offending. We expect the highest standards of behaviour from our Service
personnel. Inappropriate behaviour is downright unacceptable and it stands in stark
contrast with everything the Armed Forces represent. Anyone found to have committed
a sexual offence will be dealt with appropriately and will face the full force of
the law.</p><p> </p><p>The Armed Forces are committed to addressing the issue of sexual
harassment and sexual assault through a range of actions, including awareness campaigns
and training presentations around sexual consent.</p><p> </p><p>To make sure that
all inappropriate behaviour, including sexual assault, is tackled across the Services
a report has been launched which will be led by Air Marshal Michael Wigston. The objectives
of the Report are threefold: to understand the current evidence regarding inappropriate
behaviour across the services; to make recommendations on what can be done to ensure
and reassure, the Armed Forces are an inclusive and modern employer; and, to identify
areas for further action, including potential improvements to controls, processes
or policy.</p><p> </p><p>We recognise the great courage it takes to come forward and
report a sexual offence. Personnel who come forward can have full confidence that
all allegations are thoroughly investigated; Commanding Officers must always refer
any allegation of rape and sexual assault, or any other offence which may have a sexual
element, to the Service Police.</p>
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