An independent inquiry into the Army Foundation College (AFC) at Harrogate is being urged after four women reported to the BBC that they were sexually assaulted and harassed while attending the college when they were 17.
Sarah Atherton, former MP for Wrexham, stated that public confidence in the college could only be restored through an independent inquiry. Emma Lewell MP, who sits on the Defence Committee, called for an urgent independent inquiry led by someone with significant safeguarding experience.
North Yorkshire Police received 16 reports of sexual offences linked to the college in the year to June 2026, including allegations of exposure, voyeurism, and sexual assault. Ministry of Defence data also indicates 176 complaints of inappropriate sexual behaviour at the college between January 2018 and June 2025.
The Army stated that "unacceptable and criminal behaviour has absolutely no place in our Armed Forces" and encouraged victims and witnesses to come forward. It also mentioned that several reforms have been introduced to support victims, including specialist support from the Defence Serious Crime Command.