NO one expects life in the Army to be easy. Soldiers need to be tough because the job they have is as tough as they come.

But there is a line to be drawn between testing the endurance of young people and pushing them beyond their limit.

Our special report today into allegations of mistreatment at Army bases in North Yorkshire makes alarming reading.

Coming on top of mounting concerns about the disturbing and tragic events at Deepcut Barracks in Surrey, it adds significant weight to the calls for a public inquiry into peacetime deaths at Army bases across the country.

There may be adequate explanations, but so far they have not been given. Too many questions remain unanswered and the Army has no right to consider itself to be different from any other employer.

The Armed Forces have, quite rightly, been warmly praised for their courage, skill and dedication in the war against Iraq.

But while the British Army has an unparalleled reputation for fighting the enemy, it is tainted by a perception of secrecy and brutality within its own ranks.

We owe it to the young servicemen and women who devote their lives to serving their country, to ensure that they are treated in the way they deserve.