Ben Key, the former head of the Royal Navy, has been stripped of his knighthood and Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) after being dismissed due to allegations of an affair with a junior female officer. Key was suspended as First Sea Lord in May 2025, with an investigation concluding that he fell 'far short of expected standards'. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) announced the termination of his service and commission in July 2025.
Key is the first Sea Lord in history to have his service terminated and will continue to receive his pension despite no longer holding the rank of admiral. In a statement, he expressed acceptance of the outcome and emphasized the importance of accountability in leadership positions within the armed services. He stated, '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.'
The alleged affair reportedly came to light after a complaint was lodged with the MoD by the non-serving husband of the female officer involved. Key was accused of violating the service test, which prohibits sexual relationships between commanders and their subordinates. The junior officer's husband believed that Key should be held accountable to the same standards as those under his command.
Key was appointed CBE in 2016 and became a Knight Commander of the Order of the Bath (KCB) in 2021. He was also considered a candidate for the next Chief of Defence Staff. His removal of honours marks a significant event in the 500-year history of the Royal Navy, as it is the first instance of a First Sea Lord facing such scrutiny.
Those close to Key expressed shock at the allegations, and many female officers felt let down by his conduct. It is reported that Key attempted to retire quietly once the affair became public, but an investigation was insisted upon by General Dame Sharon Nesmith, the Vice Chief of the Defence Staff, and Defence Secretary John Healey.
In March 2025, Key provided evidence in Parliament regarding the treatment of women in the armed forces, addressing issues of 'unwelcome sexual behaviours'. He stated, 'We are absolutely determined to create a Royal Navy in which people are judged for their professional conduct, welcomed for the contribution that they make, and accepted for who they are.' He also mentioned that inappropriate behaviours would not be tolerated and that personnel found guilty would face serious consequences.
Key served as First Sea Lord from 2021 until May 2025, when he was succeeded by General Sir Gwyn Jenkins of the Royal Marines. He joined the Navy in 1984 as a university cadet and has served in various capacities throughout his career. A Royal Navy spokesperson reiterated the organization's commitment to maintaining high standards of conduct and the thorough investigation of any allegations of unacceptable behaviour.