Former Royal Navy head stripped of knighthood and CBE after affair allegations

The former head of the Royal Navy has been stripped of his knighthood and CBE a year after he was sacked following claims he had an affair with a female subordinate.

Benjamin Key was suspended from his role as first sea lord in May 2025, with a subsequent investigation stating he fell “far short of the values and standards expected”.

Get access to trustworthy local news for just £5 - sign up for a digital subscription to The News

The full investigation prompted the termination of his service and commission, a spokesperson for the Ministry of Defence said in July 2025.

He 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.

He has now been stripped of his honours.

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.”

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

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.