Overview
- An honours review announced Thursday removed the Knight Commander of the Bath (KCB) and Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) from Admiral Ben Key.
- A Ministry of Defence investigation concluded in July 2025 that Key had “fallen far short of the values and standards expected” and that finding led to the termination of his service and commission.
- News reports say the probe concerned an alleged inappropriate relationship with a junior female officer, which would breach the Royal Navy’s service test that forbids commanders having sexual relationships with subordinates.
- Key issued a statement accepting the honours outcome and expressing regret for his actions, and reports say he will continue to receive his pension despite losing his rank and honours.
- The case was referred to the Cabinet Office Forfeitures Committee for review and highlights how the armed forces’ conduct rules and honours process are used to hold senior leaders to account and shape service culture.