Sailors who refuse to be vaccinated against Covid have been threatened with dismissal.
Royal Navy personnel have had to be told they could lose their jobs if they continue to refuse the jab.
The Royal Navy used to confine unvaccinated personnel to the shore, while fully-jabbed sailors were allowed to go out to sea. People without jabs weren’t subject to any discipline or threats.
Official figures show that 10% of soldiers in the Royal Navy, Army, and Royal Air Force still have not been fully vaccinated. In recent days, sailors have received letters indicating they ‘may be subject to discharge’ from the Royal Navy unless they agree to receive the jab.
Covid has threatened sailors who refused to be vaccinated have been fired
Ministers made the announcement that the Royal Navy will take over overall responsibility for the English Channel’s migrant crisis management.
Coordination of operations will be done by a senior naval commander. Given the magnitude of the problem of migrants, it is essential that the service has as many sailors available to do the job as possible.
Former Royal Navy Chiefs Admiral Lord West, and Rear Admiral Chris Parry backed the decision to clamp down on sailors who refused the jab.
The letter to reluctant sailors read: ‘Records show that you have not yet received a complete course of vaccination against Covid-19.
‘As an employer the Royal Navy has a responsibility to take such action as is necessary to ensure that it maximises operational effectiveness and meets its health and safety obligations.
To ensure operational effectiveness and safety, full vaccinations are essential. They also maintain the health and well-being of all members of the force, as it serves to comfort them and their family, and help to protect their shipsmates and families.
‘If you are choosing not to be vaccinated you are to discuss vaccination with unit medical personnel and your chain of command. There are many options available for Covid-19 vaccinations. [from the NHS].
‘If after consideration you decided not to accept the offer of Covid-19 vaccination the Royal Navy reserves the right to review your employability and you may be subject to administrative discharge from the service.’ It remains to be seen whether the Army and the RAF also resort to more draconian measures.
In recent days, sailors have received letters indicating they ‘may be subject to discharge’ from the Royal Navy unless they agree to receive the jab (file image)
Senior sailor, who opposed the vaccination, expressed concern at the use of strong-arm tactics last night. Speaking on condition of anonymity, the chief petty officer said: ‘I am close to retirement and this policy threatens my military pension which I have paid into for decades.
‘My service record is unblemished and I have every other vaccine I am required to take by the Royal Navy.
‘But I am worried about this vaccine hence I have not received it. I could become seriously ill.
‘I would like more time to consider whether it is safe to take it. We have been given this letter and it appears that I don’t have the option. It seems that many sailors share the same opinion as me. We all feel very strongly.’
Last night, a spokesman for the Royal Navy said: ‘Service personnel are encouraged to take up the Covid vaccine in line with Government guidelines.
‘The vast majority of personnel have already been vaccinated, with 95 per cent of the Armed Forces having received at least one Covid vaccination and nearly 90 per cent being fully vaccinated.’