Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what immediate support is available for members of the armed forces who are survivors of military sexual assault or rape where the incident takes place whilst overseas.

Whilst in Service overseas, immediate support in cases of sexual assault or rape will be afforded by Serious Crime trained Service Police officers or non-Service Police professionals trained in the use of First Response Medical Evidence Kits followed by the deployment of specialist trained officers in quick succession. Service Police sign post all victims to Independent Sexual Violence Advisor services and relevant sexual offence support agencies to provide additional impartial support which is outside of Service control. Following the immediate provision of support and necessary collection of forensic evidence the victim would then, with their consent, be recovered back to the UK to attend a Sexual Assault Referral Centre. Alternatively, this may be achieved in theatre by host nation partner agreements. Victims would also be fully supported by their Chain of Command and receive pastoral support via the Chaplaincy.