Former Royal Navy chief stripped of knighthood after affair claims

The former head of the Royal Navy has been stripped of his knighthood and CBE after being fired following allegations that he had an affair with a female subordinate.

Ben Key was suspended from his role as first sea lord in May 2025, shortly before he was reportedly expected to retire.

A subsequent investigation found he fell “far short of the values and standards expected”, and resulted in the termination of his service and commission, the Ministry of Defence said in July 2025.

The Sun and others reported at the time that the probe related to an allegation of an inappropriate relationship with a female officer under his command, in breach of the Navy’s “service test”.

Mr Key was made a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 2016 and a Knight Commander of the Order of the Bath (KCB) in 2021.

Now he has been stripped of his honours.

Mr Key, a married father of three, was first sea lord from 2021 until May 2025, when he was succeeded by General Sir Gwyn Jenkins of the Royal Marines.

The first sea lord is responsible for the fighting effectiveness, efficiency and morale of the force.

Educated at Bromsgrove School in Worcestershire, Mr Key joined the Navy in 1984 as a university cadet.

He qualified as both helicopter aircrew and as a principal warfare officer, and as a junior officer saw service around the world in a variety of frigates and destroyers.

A Royal Navy spokesperson said: “The Royal Navy holds its personnel to the highest standards of conduct.

“Any allegations of unacceptable behaviour are thoroughly investigated, and those found guilty will face serious consequences.

“This includes referral to the Cabinet Office Forfeitures Committee for the withdrawal of state honours.”