MOD investigating Navy captain after claims he invited lone female sailors into his quarters

The former Commanding Officer of HMS Prince of Wales is being investigated by the Ministry of Defence (MOD) after he reportedly invited lone female sailors into his quarters.

A Royal Navy spokesperson said "an investigation is underway" into the reports regarding Captain Steve Higham, adding "it would be inappropriate to comment any further".

It comes after claims that one-on-one sessions with Capt Higham left junior servicewomen feeling uncomfortable, according to national newspaper reports.

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The Royal Navy also said the promotion for Capt Higham's next appointment had not taken effect and is on hold without prejudice pending the outcome of an ongoing investigation.

Capt Higham completed his command of HMS Prince of Wales on 24 May with a routine handover. He had previously worked as a security and defence advisor to the Prime Minister.

A leaving do to mark Capt Higham departing Downing Street was reportedly named as one of the incidents in the partygate scandal.