The pinnacle of the Royal Navy has been faraway from his duties whereas underneath investigation over allegations of misconduct, the Ministry of Defence has stated.

The MoD has not given any additional particulars on the matter Adm Sir Ben Key’s being investigated for, saying that it might be inappropriate to remark additional right now.

This assertion follows studies within the Solar that Adm Key was suspected of getting an affair with a subordinate.

Earlier this week, the MoD issued a press release to say that the First Sea Lord had “stepped again on account of non-public causes”.

Adm Key was on account of retire from his place this summer season, after serving as the pinnacle of the Royal Navy since 2021. This implies the seek for his successor was underneath method earlier than an investigation into his conduct was began.

Senior officers will be faraway from command and their duties if there’s a affordable suspicion that they’re having a sexual relationship with somebody extra junior of their chain of command.

Such relationships are frowned upon and seen as a possible abuse of energy and opposite to the army service code of conduct.

The MoD has not stated lengthy the investigation will take, with particulars of the allegations more likely to stay non-public, or commented on whether or not he’s more likely to return to obligation given his imminent retirement.

A defence supply stated the MoD would solely remark additional “if acceptable”.

Till a brand new First Sea Lord is elected, the Second Sea Lord, Vice Adm Sir Martin Connell, has taken full command of the Royal Navy.