Published: 19 June 2006
MoD responds to Deepcut Review recommendations
The Government has responded to the Deepcut Review, which investigated the circumstances surrounding the deaths of four soldiers at the Princess Royal Barracks, Deepcut.
The 34 recommendations by the report included:
· A clear standard of conduct for trainees and instructors.
· The availability of an inquest, be it within the UK or overseas.
· Ensuring the family of a deceased soldier has access to legal advice and representation.
· Specific policies aimed at the wellbeing of under-18s, including the prevention of unsupervised access to weapons and not performing unsupervised guard duty.
Minister for the Armed Forces Mr Ingram said:
"We are already in the process of implementing some of the recommendations and work has already begun to address the rest. There are very few recommendations that we cannot meet either wholly or in substantial part.
On the military complaints system, we propose to introduce a 'Service Complaints Commissioner'.
The Commissioner will be able to accept complaints directly from a Service person or a family member and will have the ability to refer such complaints to the Chain of Command for appropriate action, and to be informed of its outcome.
Critically, the Commissioner would have direct access to Ministers.
Our fundamental intent is to promote the effective operation of existing military proceedings and provide independent assurance that the procedures are working effectively, with systemic issues appropriately addressed.”
Lt General Freddie Viggers, the Adjutant General added:
"The Army does not tolerate bullying or harassment, in the training organisation or elsewhere. We will be determined in checking with any such incidents and we have enhanced our procedures so that we can react quickly.
We look forward to achieving real and demonstrable improvements for the under 18s, and to giving them the best possible start to their Army careers."
Further Information
Government's Response to the Deepcut Review
Deepcut Review
Facts on Deepcut and Army training (towards bottom of page)
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