The captain of a Royal Navy nuclear-armed submarine has reportedly stepped again from his function after being investigated over his relationship with Labour MP Joani Reid. Ms Reid’s husband, David Taylor, was certainly one of three males arrested by counter-terrorism police earlier this month on suspicion of spying for China.
The submarine captain — who’s married — and Ms Reid had been discovered to have exchanged flirtatious messages, in line with reviews, citing sources. An individual near Ms Reid, who “voluntarily” suspended herself from the Labour whip “until internal investigations are concluded” following her husband’s arrest, denies that is the case. The Navy probe into allegations that the senior navy officer had performed an inappropriate relationship with Ms Reid was launched final yr.
One particular person acquainted with the matter advised the Financial Times that, from a “due diligence perspective,” it was crucial to look at any potential blackmail danger.
Additional safety checks had been reportedly carried out following the arrest of Ms Reid’s husband.
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) is alleged to have been happy with the checks and stays assured that no breach of safety occurred.
The captain, who stays within the Navy, reportedly determined to step again for private causes this week after the FT contacted the MoD in regards to the matter.
The captain didn’t face any disciplinary motion and has not damaged any navy guidelines.
It is claimed that the officer and MP first met as younger adults and that there was no bodily relationship between the pair, who haven’t been involved for greater than six months.
Ms Reid has been the MP for East Kilbride and Strathaven since 2024.
A Royal Navy spokesperson advised the FT: “The security of the nuclear deterrent is our highest priority, and we have robust processes in place to protect the security of our people and capabilities. We will not comment on individual cases.”
A spokesperson for Ms Reid declined to remark when approached by the newspaper.
https://www.express.co.uk/news/uk/2189014/navy-captain-steps-down-texts-labour-mp