Written question asked by Andrew Mackinlay (Labour) on Friday, 3 October 2008, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 6 October 2008. It was answered by Bob Ainsworth (Labour) on Monday, 6 October 2008 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Armed Forces: Disciplinary Proceedings

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what reports he has received on the practice of beasting in the Royal Welsh Regiment; which senior officers (a) have been admonished and (b) are the subject of disciplinary action arising from the practice of beasting in the regiment since 3 July 2006; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: No personnel from any of the three Royal Welsh battalions have been admonished or subject to disciplinary action arising from allegations over the practice of beasting in the regiment since 3 July 2006.Now that the trial of three individuals from the 2nd Battalion the Royal Welsh Regiment for the manslaughter of Private Gavin Williams on 3 July 2006 has concluded, the Royal Military Police have begun to investigate whether there has been any breach of military law. Once this investigation and any subsequent proceedings have concluded, an Army Board of Inquiry will be held to examine the circumstances surrounding Private Williams' death. It would not be appropriate to comment further at this time.

Secondary information