The British Army has opened a new front – this time against the country’s private members’ clubs. Deputy Chief of the General Staff, Lieutenant General David Eastman, has issued marching orders to all Corps and Regimental Colonels, saying that he’s “concerned” about historic ties to clubs “whose rules, policies, or cultural practices may not align with the Army’s commitment to inclusivity.” No safe space left in St James…
He’s instructed every unit to conduct a full review of club links, “engage” with them, and “disassociate where necessary.” In his own words:
“It has come to my attention that some Corps and Regiments maintain historical associations with private members’ clubs whose rules, policies, or cultural practices may not align with the Army’s commitment to inclusivity. This concern extends beyond clubs that exclude women entirely, to include those where membership rights, access, or participation differ on the basis of gender, for example, restrictions on the rooms that can be accessed, the events that can be attended, or whether members may make purchases on equal terms.
Where access or treatment is unequal, the effect is to diminish the agency of some members, restrict their participation in opportunities that may be professionally advantageous, and risk sending a mixed signal about the Army’s stated commitment to inclusion.”
The Garrick Club went co-ed just in time then…
UPDATE:
An Army spokesperson said:
“Ensuring every member of our Armed Forces can participate fully in Army life without facing barriers based on gender is fundamental to building the capable, cohesive fighting force. This review addresses informal affiliations that risk creating two-tier access to professional networks. Where clubs affiliated with Corps or Regiments maintain different membership rights based on gender, it sends a message inconsistent with how a modern Army operates. There is never a wrong time to address practices that limit the potential of our people. This review requires no diversion of operational resources, it asks senior leaders to assess affiliations and engage in dialogue.”
Read the full letter below:
