Statements following the conclusion of Colonel Shepherd and Major Hook's Court Martial

Statements from the Defence Secretary and the Army, in response to today’s proceedings at Catterick Military Court, in the case of Major James Hook and Colonel Samantha Shepherd.

Defence Secretary Rt Hon Wes Streeting MP said:

No family should have to go through the loss that Jaysley-Louise’s family are having to deal with every single day. My thoughts are with her family and loved ones. I commend the bravery and determination they have shown in pursuing the change needed in our Armed Forces.

Every person who serves in our Armed Forces is owed a duty of care, and all have a responsibility to uphold standards of behaviour befitting the uniform they wear.

The Army has accepted all of the findings identified by the Service Inquiry and responded to the recommendations to improve Service life across its culture, policies, and practices.

While significant reforms have been introduced since Jaysley-Louise’s tragic death, including commissioning the first-ever Armed Forces sexualised behaviour and sexual harassment survey, appointing the first Armed Forces Commissioner, and strengthening the Victim Witness Care Unit and Defence Serious Crime Command, there is more to do.

I am deeply committed to improving how complaints and crimes are reported and investigated. Service personnel must have confidence that unacceptable and criminal behaviour will be tackled, that concerns will be acted upon, and that they will be supported when they come forward. Jaysley-Louise’s family have my commitment that I will continue to drive the changes needed to ensure every voice is heard.

I encourage anyone who has experienced a sexual offence to seek support and report it. Information on reporting options, specialist support services and help available within and outside Defence can be found on the Defence support: sexual offences guidance on GOV.UK.

Brigadier Melissa Emmett, Head of Army Personnel Services Group (APSG), speaking on behalf of the Chief of the General Staff and the Army, said: