PCS demands investigation into MoD sexual harassment culture

PCS is calling for an independent investigation following shocking revelations after 60 senior female staff at the Ministry of Defence reported a widespread culture of sexual, harassment and abuse by male colleagues. 

A dossier sent to MoD permanent secretary, David Williams in October detailed a series of incidents at the department’s headquarters and other workplaces but the inadequate response by officials has led to concerted public calls for action, as reported by The Guardian.

PCS general secretary, Mark Serwotka, said: “We’re shocked and appalled by these reports, but they do echo our members’ experiences. We want to meet the Permanent Secretary to discuss this at his earliest opportunity. 

"Attacking the roots of this widespread toxic culture is well overdue. Such appalling behaviour has no place in the civil service or anywhere else and we call for an urgent independent investigation to build long-lasting change.”

Unions are due to meet the permanent secretary on 6 December but have made it clear that, given the seriousness of allegations, nothing short of an independent investigation will now suffice.