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The MoD today welcomed the second annual report examining the fairness, effectiveness and efficiency of the Service Complaints System.

The independent report by Service Complaints Commissioner, Dr Susan Atkins, commends the three Services for their commitment to tackling all forms of unacceptable behaviour and ensuring that Service men and women are treated well. It also includes a range of recommendations.

The Report comes at the end of the Service Complaints Commissioner’s second year in office. The role was established on 1 December 2007 and provides independent reassurance to Service personnel, their families, the public, Ministers and Parliament.

Armed Forces Minister Bill Rammell said:

“I welcome Dr Atkins’s second annual report on the Service complaints process. Her observations and comments show the value to us of having her independent oversight to help us improve further on the way we handle complaints. The Services will need time to fully consider the report’s recommendations, and the Secretary of State will respond formally to her once they have done so.”

A formal, detailed response to the Service Complaints Commissioner’s report will be issued once the recommendations have been considered fully by the MOD and the Services.

Notes to Editors

1. The Armed Forces Service Complaints Commissioner’s Annual Report for 2009 can be accessed via the website at www.armedforcescomplaints.independent.gov.uk

2. Media enquiries for the MoD should be directed to Lucy Bowen in the MoD Press Office on 0207 218 9900.

3. Media enquiries for the Service Complaints Commissioner’s Office should be directed to Alan George or Alex Gandhi on 0207 400 7394 or at SCC@hanovercomms.com

Contacts:

Ministry of Defence
NDS.MOD@coi.gsi.gov.uk