The Ministry of Defence has issued statements following the sentencing of former soldier Michael Webber, whose actions were linked to the death of Corporal Jaysley-Louise Beck.
In a statement, the Minister for Veterans and People, Louise Sandher-Jones MP, described Beck’s death as “a tragedy” and expressed “profound sorrow for the failure to protect her.” The minister said the sentencing “does not diminish the profound loss felt by her family, friends and the wider community, but it does represent an important step on the journey to justice.”
Sandher-Jones said there was “no place for criminal or unacceptable behaviours within the military,” adding that all personnel “must be able to serve free from abuse, and with the dignity and respect they deserve.” She emphasised that the government is “honouring Jaysley’s legacy by bringing about crucial reform” across Defence culture, policies and practices.
The minister noted that the Army has accepted in full the failings identified by the Service Inquiry and responded to its recommendations, but said “there is more work to be done.” Citing her own experience as a veteran, Sandher-Jones said the mission to reform the Armed Forces was “deeply personal” and reaffirmed her commitment to preventing similar failures in future.
Support services for victims of serious crime within Defence were also highlighted. The confidential crime line (0800 085 0658) remains available 24 hours a day, and the Victim Witness Care Unit can be contacted on 07974 074259 for advice and assistance.
Major General Jon Swift, Assistant Chief of the General Staff, also issued a statement expressing condolences to Beck’s family. “We will always be profoundly sorry for the failings that were identified at Jaysley’s inquest in February,” he said. “The end of this court martial is another traumatic step in the journey for Jaysley’s family, and we acknowledge that today’s outcome has come too late for their beloved daughter. We are sorry we didn’t listen to Jaysley when she first reported her assault.”
Swift said the Army is “determined to make sure the same mistakes don’t happen again,” citing cultural reforms introduced since Beck’s death. These include the ‘Raising Our Standards’ programme, which aims to improve leadership training, behavioural standards and trust in the complaints process.
He thanked the Defence Serious Crime Command and the Service Prosecuting Authority for their roles in investigating and concluding the case, and reiterated that the Army’s reforms are intended to ensure “service personnel have the confidence to report sexual offences and inappropriate behaviours, knowing that they will be listened to.”
DSCC. Another name rebrand of the services SIBs.
I’m not well read on this, but I understand the poor victim complained up the chain of command, shouldn’t they be in the dock for failing to act? Or have they been sentenced as well?