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Female Navy commander investigated over 'ship affair'

The first female commander of a major Royal Navy warship has left her vessel following an allegation she had an affair with a shipmate.

Commander Sarah West, 42, took charge of Type 23 frigate HMS Portland in May 2012 but is understood to have left the ship amid a Navy investigation.

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Royal Navy taking affair claims against West 'seriously'

The Royal Navy has said Commander Sarah West can expect to face "appropriate action" if it is proved she had an affair with a shipmate on board HMS Portland.

We are aware of an allegation of a breach of the code of social conduct on board HMS Portland, which we are treating seriously.

Anyone who is found to fall short of the Royal Navy's high standards can expect to face appropriate action. It would be inappropriate to comment further.

– A Royal Navy spokesman

Possible punishments for not meeting the "high standards" include a formal warning, reassignment or even a formal dismissal.

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