Published: 30 March 2006
Deepcut Review
Nicholas Blake QC has published his independent report on the circumstances surrounding the deaths of four young soldiers at Princess Royal Barracks, Deepcut.
Privates Sean Benton, Cheryl James, Geoff Gray and James Collinson died from gunshot wounds over the period 1995 - 2002.
The independent review was commissioned by the Minister for the Armed Forces, the Right Honourable Adam Ingram MP, in December 2004 and its terms of reference for the review were:
‘Urgently to review the circumstances surrounding the deaths of four soldiers at Princess Royal Barracks, Deepcut between 1995 and 2002 in the light of available material and any representations that might be made in this regard, and to produce a report.’
Responding to the report in the House of Commons, Mr Ingram said:
"I am satisfied that this report represents an independent, objective and comprehensive analysis of all matters which have a bearing on the four deaths, and that Mr Blake has not been constrained by his Terms of Reference. Importantly, he has been able to tackle the wider issues.
There were three issues around which much comment had been made about events at Deepcut:
· the alleged suspicious circumstances of the deaths;
· a claimed culture of bullying;
· and the need for a formal Public Inquiry.
I am pleased to note that Mr Blake makes substantial findings on all three points.
First, Mr Blake has concluded that, on the balance of probabilities, the deaths of Sean Benton, Cheryl James and Geoff Gray at Deepcut were self-inflicted.
Given the recent coroner's inquest into the death of James Collinson, he understandably refrains from reaching any conclusion on this particular death.
However, he does comment that the opportunity for self-infliction was afforded by the policy of frequently assigning trainees to guard duty at Deepcut, unsupervised by experienced soldiers. The Review found a number of factors that may have contributed to their unhappiness and may have made them more susceptible to self-harm.
On the question of bullying, Mr Blake states that there is no evidence that any of the trainees were bullied to death.
However, he accepts that some trainees at Deepcut - and at that probably only a small minority - experienced harassment, discrimination and oppressive behaviour.
Those who did not complain appear to have had little confidence that the system could or would address their grievances. These are important criticisms which will be addressed.
Finally, on the question of a Public Inquiry, as I indicated in my response to the earlier HCDC report on this, I did not consider a formal Public Inquiry was required.
The HCDC was of a similar view. Mr Blake, in a carefully reasoned examination of the arguments for such an approach, has concluded that a Public Inquiry into the immediate or broader circumstances surrounding these deaths is not necessary. I re-affirm my earlier position and concur with Mr Blake's conclusion.
Although, the purpose of the Review was not to attribute blame, Mr Blake has described a disturbing catalogue of allegations of misconduct at the relevant times.
The Army authorities will carefully examine the report to see if there is any indication of professional misconduct or negligence which might make administrative action appropriate. In addition, any matters that suggest a disciplinary offence may have been committed will be referred to the Royal Military Police for further investigation.
Mr Blake understands the importance, particularly for the Army, of recruiting U18s, but he has highlighted weaknesses with regard to their appropriate care.
This is an issue we are alive to and we are improving the standard of care and support afforded to young recruits. For example, trainees' surveys have been established and a note of guidance for all Commanding Officers covering all aspects relating to working with U18s has been produced.
As in society as a whole, bullying, harassment and other inappropriate behaviour can never be totally eliminated in the Armed Forces. But it is essential that we establish an environment in which bullying is wholly unacceptable.
At every stage of their training and careers it is made very clear to personnel that bullying and harassment, in any form, is not tolerated and that it is part of their duty, and a function of leadership, to eliminate it.
Mr Blake has given us a detailed and painstaking report of considerable substance. I am confident that it will provide further impetus for improvement.
I can assure the House of my determination to deal with the issues he has raised and I undertake to provide a detailed formal written response to the House on all the recommendations. I am determined to ensure that everything possible is done to prevent similar tragedies occurring in the future.
Mr Blake concluded his report with his profound condolences to each of the families concerned. On behalf of the Ministry of Defence, I again add my condolences."
Further information
Deepcut Review website
Report
Army Training and Recruiting Agency
Related articles:
Deepcut - The Response
Deepcut
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