The Spectator

Conduct unbecoming | 14 April 2007

Monday was ‘National Nuclear Day’ in Iran. In Britain, with the paid appearance of Leading Seaman Faye Turney on television, it was national humiliation day

issue 14 April 2007

Monday was ‘National Nuclear Day’ in Iran. In Britain, with the paid appearance of Leading Seaman Faye Turney on television, it was national humiliation day. The abduction three weeks ago of 15 British sailors and marines by a hostile regime was, at best, a misfortune; the decision of Ms Turney and Operator Mechanic Arthur Batchelor to profit from their experience was a disgrace. That the Royal Navy and the Ministry of Defence thought it appropriate — even for a day — for the sailors to sell their stories demonstrates just how deeply British society has been corrupted by the twin cults of celebrity and victimhood.

That’s not to say that the whole episode reflects poorly on the sailors and marines. Contrary to some tub-thumping commentary, they had little choice but to surrender. Blame for what happened lies not with the service personnel but with the rules of engagement under which they operated, and the lack of protection afforded them by the Royal Navy.

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