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Soldiers

Army to Face Criticism Over Deaths of Four Recruits

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

A long-awaited review by human rights barrister Nicholas Blake QC is set to reveal a damning catalogue of abuse and failings by the Army following the deaths of four recruits at Deepcut barracks. The report, expected to be released this week, will criticize the Army's handling of the cases, including allegations of verbal abuse and physical bullying. The review will focus on the deaths of Privates Sean Benton, 20, Cheryl James, 18, Geoff Gray, 17, and James Collinson, 17, who shot themselves between 1995 and 2002. However, their families believe at least some were murdered and have accused the armed forces and Surrey Police of a 'whitewash'.

Key Takeaways:

  • The independent review by Nicholas Blake QC will criticize the Army for failing in its duty of care and urge tighter rules on access to weapons.
  • The report will also highlight a culture of physical bullying and psychological abuse at the Deepcut barracks, which has since been stamped out, according to the Army.
  • The families of the deceased recruits will continue to push for a public inquiry, despite Army chiefs drawing up plans to limit the impact of the report and protect those named.
  • Ex-Captain Mike Radford, 36, and Lieutenant-Colonel Nigel Josling, the officer in charge of the training regiment when Privates Benton and James died, are expected to be criticized for their handling of the cases.
  • Brigadier Clive Elderton, in command when Pte Collinson died in 2002, has since been promoted despite being linked to the case.
  • Former Sergeant-Major Andrew Gavaghan was accused of being at the heart of a group of non-commissioned officers who bullied recruits, but has denied any wrongdoing.

Statistics:

  • Four recruits died at Deepcut barracks between 1995 and 2002: Privates Sean Benton, 20, Cheryl James, 18, Geoff Gray, 17, and James Collinson, 17.
  • A £1million inquiry by Surrey Police found no evidence of foul play, but admitted that early investigations had been inadequate.
  • 14 serving and former soldiers will be criticized in the report, although not all will be publicly named.

Sources:

  • BBC Panorama investigation
  • A £1million inquiry by Surrey Police
  • Damning report by MPs
  • The Daily Mail

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