Statements from the Minister for Veterans and People, and
Assistant Chief of the General Staff, following the sentencing of
Michael Webber today.
Minister for Veterans and People, MP said:
The death of Jaysley-Louise Beck was a tragedy and her loss
continues to be felt across the Army and wider Defence community.
My thoughts are with her loved ones and we remain profoundly
sorry for the failure to protect her.
Today's 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.
Let me be clear: there is no place for criminal or unacceptable
behaviours within the military. All those who choose to serve our
country, particularly our newest recruits, must be able to do so
free from abuse, and with the dignity and respect they deserve.
We are honouring Jaysley's legacy by bringing about crucial
reform, to provide a place where people are proud to work and
have faith in the service justice system.
The Army has accepted the failings identified by the Service
Inquiry in full and has also responded to the recommendations to
improve Service life across its culture, policies, and practices.
However, there is more work to be done. As a Minister and Army
veteran, this mission is deeply personal to me, and I am
committed to driving the necessary change to prevent this from
happening again.
Anyone – military or civilian – who has been a victim of serious
crime in the Defence community can contact our confidential crime
line on 0800 085 0658, which is available 24/7.
Likewise, if you have been affected by a serious crime and are
unsure of your next steps, you can contact the Victim Witness
Care Unit (VWCU) on 07974 074259 to get advice and support on the
next steps.
Major General Jon Swift, Assistant Chief of the General
Staff (ACGS), said:
To Jaysley-Louise Becks family, we continue to offer our
sincerest condolences. We will always be profoundly sorry for the
failings that were identified at Jaysley's inquest in
February.
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.
We are determined to make sure the same mistakes don't happen
again. Since Jaysley's death we have introduced a significant
cultural reform programme, alongside the ‘Raising our Standards'
programme. We are making improvements in how we train our people
in appropriate behaviours, how we assess and select our leaders,
and to build the trust our people place in us to address
every complaint.
I am grateful to the Defence Serious Crime Command for its
investigation into Webber and the Service Prosecuting Authority
for bringing this case to conclusion.
Following Jaysley's inquest, work is ongoing to make lasting and
effective change. Change, that will give service personnel the
confidence they need to report sexual offences and inappropriate
behaviours, knowing that they will be listened to.
