British Army '˜determined to stamp out' foul-mouthed abuse against trainees

Lieutenant Colonel Graeme Macpherson is part of the 11th Infantry Brigade, which is made up of troops from across Hampshire the south-east.

Speaking exclusively to The News, Lt Col Macpherson admitted there was a problem with aggressive army instructors swearing at recruits during training.

It comes after the foul-mouthed treatment was highlighted in a BBC documentary.

‘That sort of behaviour is unacceptable,’ Lt Col Macpherson said.

‘Everybody needs to be treated with dignity and respect no matter whether they are a trainee, a private soldier or a general.

‘One of the skills we try to build into people is the ability to communicate with people at different levels of society – regardless of their own position in society.

‘We’re an equal opportunity employer and we’re looking to recruit a diverse spectrum of society and therefore behaviour of that nature is unacceptable and has been for a long time.

‘Sadly sometimes it occurs and where it does we are determined to take steps to stamp it out.’

Lt Col Macpherson’s comment came during a British Army engagement evening with employers and community leaders from across Portsmouth.

Held at the Pyramids Centre in Southsea, it was a chance for the 11th Infantry Brigade to show what they get up to.

During an hour-long presentation, officers described the work the army does to keep the nation safe, as well as all the opportunities it can offer, from reserve and full-time roles, to cadet forces for youngsters.

Portsmouth Lord Mayor, Frank Jonas attended. ‘I thought it was an informative evening,’ he said.

‘We tend to forget our army connections and how many veterans we have in the city from the army.

‘Portsmouth is intrinsically linked with the navy but it has a rich history with the army too which we shouldn’t forget.’