Harrogate and Knaresborough MP Tom Gordon has called for independent specialists to support an investigation into rape and abuse claims at army training facilities.
The Liberal Democrat MP is one of six MPs to sign a joint letter to the Defence Secretary, raising concerns about how the investigation will support those coming forward.
The investigation follows BBC reporting in August detailing allegations of assault and harassment involving four young women at the Army Foundation College in Harrogate.
The letter says claims across 10 military sites should not be regarded as isolated incidents.
It points to previous parliamentary inquiries, Ministry of Defence research and media investigations which, the MPs say, have highlighted sexual violence, harassment and misogyny within military training.
The MPs warn that victims may lack confidence to speak to an investigation overseen by a senior figure with a military background.
They are calling for independent civilian specialists in sexual violence and trauma to support the Armed Forces Commissioner’s work.
Tom said:
“The young people who join our Armed Forces deserve to know they will be safe and treated with dignity and respect.
"But it is clear that in many army colleges there is a culture which leaves female cadets, in particular, feeling afraid and vulnerable.
“It is unacceptable, and those who propagate such a culture have no place in our military.
"These allegations are incredibly serious and warrant a thorough, considered, well-funded investigation to restore trust.”
The letter also asks what funding will be available for the investigation and whether its findings will be published in full and laid before Parliament.
The MPs want allegations of rape and serious sexual assault arising from the investigation to be referred to civilian police and prosecuting authorities, rather than the service justice system.
South Devon MP Caroline Voaden said:
“Reliving any experience of sexual violence is traumatic and difficult.
"It's vitally important that someone who is trained in the resulting trauma of sexual violence be present when young women are asked to contribute to this investigation.”
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