Coronavirus: Royal Navy confirms HMS Sultan training continues during lockdown after concerns over travelling recruits

The Gosport shore base, attended by hundreds of trainees, forms part of the Naval Service’s continuing training programme in light of coronavirus.

However, the Royal Navy said in a Covid-19 Q&A the situation is ‘rapidly changing’ and any new recruits would be updated through their online applications.

An HMS Sultan spokesman said: ‘The Ministry of Defence has put in place robust plans to ensure the delivery of key operations in the UK and overseas and we are confident that essential defence tasks will be maintained during this time.

‘Any MOD personnel who are showing symptoms will follow the advice and guidance issued by Public Health England.

‘Whilst sensible precautions are being taken, all required outputs are being maintained at HMS Sultan.’

It came after one source from the base, who asked to remain anonymous, alleged civilian staff there ‘feel embarrassed and incredibly worried’ about still having to go for work after Monday’s lockdown.

Unessential businesses have been ordered to close under the measure and Britons have been told only to travel to work if it cannot be done at home.

British schoolchildren have also been sent home unless their parents are key workers, including NHS staff, whose working obligations continue during lockdown.

A message on one of the Royal Navy’s webpages dedicated to Covid-19 said: ‘Naval Service training is continuing. However, this is a rapidly changing situation and any changes to your individual situation will be communicated through your Defence Recruiting System application portal.’