Author: DRAPER, ALFRED
Title: Smoke without Fire. The Swabey Case
Description: London: Arlington Books, 1974. First Edition; First Impression. Original cloth. Light soiling & discolouration to text block edges & front & back endpapers. Light wear to spine, covers & corners. Dustjacket: spine, covers & corners somewhat faded, soiled & worn. ; Light soiling & discolouration to text block edges & front & back endpapers. Light wear to spine, covers & corners. Dustjacket: spine, covers & corners somewhat faded, soiled & worn. ; 22 x 14.3 x 3.5 cms; ix, 260 pages; The case of Swabey in the British Navy centers on an officer whose private life became the focus of an intense inquiry primarily due to his homosexual relationships. At a time when such behavior was heavily stigmatized and considered incompatible with the rigid codes of military propriety, details of his intimate encounters were scrutinized to question his suitability for service. The investigation, examining evidence related to his personal conduct, raised issues about whether his lifestyle could potentially undermine the trust and discipline expected of naval officers. Many later argued that the case was driven more by institutional prejudice and moral policing than by genuine concerns over operational competence or security, making it a notable example of how personal matters—specifically homosexuality—were used to justify disciplinary action within the armed forces.. Very Good- .

Keywords: Justice Injustice Gay History Court Martial Scandal State Repression Homosexuality