Andy Burnham is not actively considering a public inquiry into the UK actions of paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein, despite claims the Government was “looking into” holding one, it is understood.
Government Position Clarified
Victims minister Alex Davies-Jones suggested on Tuesday night that an inquiry was a possibility, adding the Prime Minister had agreed to meet Epstein’s victims and was “taking this very seriously”. But the Press Association now understands a public inquiry is not being actively considered by No10.
Speaking to BBC Newsnight, Ms Davies-Jones also suggested ministers were considering an inquiry into alleged sexual misconduct by former Harrods owner Mohamed Al Fayed, who died in 2023.
Al Fayed Allegations
More than 400 allegations have been made against Al Fayed, dating between 1977 and 2014, including sexual assault, rape, sexual exploitation and human trafficking. The Met Police are investigating at least 156 victims who contacted them directly, including 21 who came forward before Al Fayed’s death in 2023 at the age of 94.
Minister's Comments
Asked if a public inquiry was on the table, Ms Davies-Jones said: “We are looking into this, we are reviewing what is possible… same with Harrods survivors. We already have a now statutory inquiry under way for the grooming gangs victims. I have been assured that the Prime Minister is taking this very seriously. He will meet with those victims and he is looking at what is possible, now he has access to all of the information as Prime Minister to see… what action we can take.”
