Police Scotland have been urged to reopen their investigation into former Harrods owner Mohamed Al Fayed following more than 400 allegations of sexual misconduct dating back to 1977. The force previously closed an investigation into a rape allegation at his Scottish Highlands estate, stating it could be reopened if new information emerged.
A Westminster all-party parliamentary group (APPG) was established this week to monitor a Metropolitan Police investigation into the allegations and to push for a full inquiry. The group's co-chairs, Wendy Chamberlain and Dave Robertson, have written to Scotland's Chief Constable Jo Farrell, citing the Met's ongoing probe.
In their letter, the MPs acknowledged the earlier closure but noted the Met investigation and the interest of the Independent Office for Police Conduct into the handling of previous complaints. They asked whether Police Scotland are considering reopening their investigation and urged an assessment of the merits of doing so.
The letter added that with more than 400 known survivors and further women coming forward, and given the earliest known allegation dates from 1977, it seems entirely likely that crimes were committed within Scotland. It also highlighted reports of trafficking and sexual abuse taking place across international borders.
A Police Scotland spokesperson said the letter had been received and would be responded to in due course. A Harrods spokesperson expressed support for survivors, encouraged them to apply to the Harrods redress scheme before 31 March 2026, and urged them to pursue every avenue of justice, including through the police or the Fayed family and estate.
