Prime Minister Presses Travelodge Chief Executive Over Sexual Assault Incident
Prime Minister Keir Starmer has formally written to Jo Boydell, the chief executive of Travelodge, demanding that the hotel chain "seriously engage" with Members of Parliament who are raising urgent concerns about its security protocols. This action follows a deeply troubling sexual assault case at a Travelodge branch in Maidenhead, Berkshire, which has sparked widespread alarm.
Details of the Assault and Security Failures
The case centres on Kyran Smith, a 29-year-old man who was sentenced to seven and a half years in prison last month for sexual assault and trespass with intent to commit a sexual offence. The attack occurred in December 2022 after a party, when Smith falsely informed reception staff at the Maidenhead Travelodge that he was the victim's boyfriend. Shockingly, staff provided him with the woman's room number and a keycard, enabling the assault.
More than twenty MPs had requested an urgent meeting with Boydell this month to discuss the incident, highlighting the chain's security processes and procedures. They also criticised Travelodge for offering the victim an "insulting" £30 refund after the attack, which further compounded the distress.
Starmer's Direct Intervention and Demands
In his letter, released by Downing Street, Starmer expressed being "very concerned" that some MPs were unable to hear directly from Boydell. He emphasised that tackling violence against women and girls is a "personal mission" for him and called for a whole-of-society response.
"I urge you to seriously engage with MPs and my government to address the concerns that remain around best-practice interventions for prevention, the training being made available, and the pace of Travelodge's response," Starmer stated. He welcomed the company's decision to launch an independent investigation into its room security policies but stressed that immediate action is crucial.
Starmer noted that while some changes are being implemented regarding room access, the review must proceed swiftly. "This review should proceed at pace, with a confirmed timeline and a commitment to deliver the outcomes, so early findings can be acted upon immediately," he added.
Travelodge's Response and Independent Review
Travelodge has acknowledged the prime minister's letter and stated it will respond. Earlier this month, Boydell announced that the company had made immediate changes to its room-access security policy and commissioned an independent review. This review will be led by Paul Greaney KC, a barrister specialising in public inquiries concerning security, serious violent crime, and health and safety.
Additionally, Travelodge plans to appoint a leading expert on violence against women and girls to contribute to the review and has invited MPs to provide written input. The company recently met with several MPs, including ministers responsible for safeguarding and tackling violence against women and girls.
Starmer concluded his letter by expressing hope that Travelodge will play its part in ensuring victims are front and centre in efforts to combat violence against women and girls, reinforcing the need for robust and transparent security measures across the hospitality industry.
