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<p>The Ministry of Defence (MOD) is clear that sexual offending is not tolerated in
the Armed Forces and, if it does occur, we have processes in place to ensure that
support is offered and provided to victims. Allegations made to the Service Police
are considered fully and, subject to the outcome of any investigation, referred to
the Director of Service Prosecutions (DSP) for a decision on charging. The conduct
of investigations and decisions to charge are subject to independent decisions by
the Provost Marshals and the DSP.</p><p> </p><p>The Service Police and Prosecutors
who deal with allegations of sexual assault undergo the same training as those in
the civilian criminal justice system and work to the same standards. I am confident
that the service justice system provides an effective and fair system of justice for
the men and women in the UK’s Armed Forces; anyone failing to meet the clear and high
standards of behaviour required to serve will be dealt with robustly, including dismissal.</p><p>
</p><p>The MOD is in the process of implementing a number of recommendations following
the Service Justice System Review, which will ensure the service justice system is
more effective, efficient and provides a better service to those who use it, in particular
victims and witnesses. The recommendations which require legislation form part of
the Armed Forces Bill.</p><p> </p><p>Detailed statistics about sexual offending in
the Service Justice System are published annually as part of our commitment to openness
and transparency:</p><p> </p><p><a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/sexual-offences-in-the-service-justice-system"
target="_blank">https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/sexual-offences-in-the-service-justice-system</a></p><p>
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