09-05-2025
Head of Royal Navy suspended over ‘affair with subordinate'
The head of the Royal Navy has been suspended over claims he had an affair with an subordinate, sources have disclosed.
Admiral Sir Ben Key, 59, a married father of three, was told to 'step back from all duties' while an investigation is carried out, it is understood.
It is the first time in the Royal Navy's 500-year history that its first sea lord has faced a misconduct inquiry.
Vice-Admiral Sir Martin Connell, the second sea lord, has temporarily replaced him although General Sir Gwyn Jenkins, a Royal Marine, is expected to be given the job imminently.
Jenkins will become the first amphibious soldier rather than a sailor to take over the position.
Key was due to stand down in the summer. However, he was
