Second Sea Lord Vice Admiral James Burnell-Nugent has been continuing his efforts to attract more ethnic minorities into the Royal Navy by inviting Muslim community leaders to Portsmouth Naval Base.

Nelson’s flagship at Trafalgar was the setting for a lunch, which was also attended by Portsmouth Naval Base Commander Commodore Amjad Hussain.

But the Muslim leaders – including Khurshid Drabu, the Muslim member of the Ministry of Defence religious advisory panel, and Daud Abdullah, Deputy Secretary General of the Muslim Council of Britain – were also given an insight into today’s Navy with a visit to Type 23 frigate HMS Richmond, and a visit to 2SL’s headquarters, Victory Building.

Admiral Burnell-Nugent was keen to hear what the perception of the RN was among Britain’s Muslim community – and learn about its culture and faith so the Navy can better promote itself.

“The Royal Navy is very aware of the needs of different faith and ethnic communities and has actively introduced policies to meet those needs,” he said.

“It is important that today’s Royal Navy includes as many people as possible from culturally diverse backgrounds.

“Meeting representatives from the Muslim community has been an excellent opportunity to pass that message on directly.”

In his first 15 months in office, Admiral Burnell-Nugent has visited ethnic minority community centres, temples and houses of worship in an effort to raise the Navy’s profile in areas of British society where recruiting is not as high as it is hoped.

The RN’s specialist Diversity Action Team visits schools and colleges all over the country as well as community and multi-faith centres.