UK armed forces introduce ban on use of sex workers abroad

Measure replaces patchwork of policies and, defence secretary says, reflects changing social attitudes

Britain's armed forces have introduced a ban on the use of sex workers abroad for the first time as part of an attempt to stamp out sexual exploitation and abuse across the military.

Personnel found to have engaged in what the Ministry of Defence describes as transactional sex" face the prospect of dismissal - and they could also be prosecuted if in countries where prostitution is illegal.