Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what procedure is available to (a) recruits and (b) parents of recruits for reporting allegations of sexual abuse or inappropriate sexual relationships at the Army Foundation College, Harrogate; and if he will make a statement.

In line with Ministry of Defence direction, the Army Foundation College (AFC), Harrogate has an extensive Supervisory Care and Safeguarding Directive in place, and a Code of Conduct for recruits is issued and explained to recruits within the first two days of training. This outlines procedures on how to report any form of harassment. On enlistment recruits are also issued a booklet explaining the AFC complaints procedure, including contact details for external agencies.

Recruits wishing to report any allegations of sexual abuse or inappropriate sexual relationships can seek initial advice from their Company or College Equality and Diversity Advisors. All allegations are thoroughly investigated. All serious incidents are reported and managed through established procedures involving welfare officers, the police and external agencies as required.

Parents are also provided with details of the welfare team, military permanent staff and Duty Chaplain at the AFC Reception Day. All recruits and parents have the freedom to inform civilian police of any concerns.