Today's defence news is dominated by coverage of the centenary of the Third Battle of Ypres (Passchendaele), with events taking place in Belgium this evening. There is also coverage of an increase in the reporting of sexual offences in the Armed Forces.
Passchendaele
There is extensive print, online and broadcast coverage, including BBC R4, ITV News, BBC Scotland, BBC Online, The Sunday Telegraph, The Sunday Express, The Sun, The Sunday People and The Sunday Mirror marking the centenary of the Battle of Passchendaele.
Defence Secretary Sir Michael Fallon said:
These services provide us with the time to reflect on the sacrifice not just of the thousands of British and Commonwealth troops who gave their lives, but of the men on all sides who did not return home. This was a battle which touched communities across Europe and it is a privilege to be here in Belgium to stand as friends with the representatives of all the countries who took part in the Battle – friends who continue to be strong allies.
Reporting of Sexual Offences
The Sunday People and Sunday Mirror Online report on recent statistics released by the MOD which show in increase in the reporting of some sexual offences.
A Ministry of Defence spokesperson said:
These offences are abhorrent crimes which have no place in our Armed Forces. All allegations are thoroughly investigated, and anyone found to fall short of the services’ high standards or to have committed an offence under the Armed Forces Act is dealt with appropriately, up to and including dismissal from service.
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