Following the landmark case in which former Australian soldier Ben Roberts-Smith lost his defamation claim against Nine newspapers, debate over whether or not he should keep his Victoria Cross and other medals now grows.

Despite the Federal Court finding there was “substantial evidence” Mr Roberts-Smith was responsible for criminal acts, he has not been found guilty for the alleged crimes.

Former Australian War Memorial principal historian Doctor Peter Stanley told Gary Adshead on 6PR Breakfast it would likely be a certainty if he was convicted.

“There have been eight people who have had their VC’s taken off of them, all for criminal convictions less sever than the offence that Ben Roberts-Smith has been accused of,” Dr Stanley said.

Press PLAY to hear more about Ben Roberts-Smith and the potential of having his medals removed

Image: Getty/Sam Mooy