Public inquiry into Epstein’s actions in the UK under consideration
Andy Burnham is considering a public inquiry into the actions of disgraced convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein on UK soil, reports BritPanorama.
Victims minister Alex Davies-Jones confirmed that the new prime minister is taking the issue “very seriously.” She stated in an interview with BBC Newsnight that he has agreed to meet with Epstein’s victims and is “looking into” the possibility of conducting an inquiry.
Ms. Davies-Jones, who resigned as justice minister in May due to a perceived lack of action under former Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, returned to the role with Mr. Burnham’s ascent to power. She indicated that, prior to joining his government, she had received assurances about prioritising victims’ needs.
“I was having multiple conversations with him and his team,” Ms. Davies-Jones said, emphasizing that Mr. Burnham has agreed to meet with Epstein victims and maintain communications with them during his transition to prime minister. She also mentioned a commitment to work collaboratively on systemic changes to benefit victims, including those of grooming gangs.
A potential inquiry focused on claims against Mohamed Al Fayed, the former owner of Harrods who passed away in 2023, is also being evaluated. Over 400 allegations of sexual misconduct have been directed at Al Fayed, spanning from 1977 to 2014, and include serious charges such as sexual assault and human trafficking.
London’s Metropolitan Police currently engage with at least 156 victims who approached them directly, including 21 who made their reports before Al Fayed’s death at age 94. When asked about the possibility of a public inquiry, Ms. Davies-Jones affirmed, “We are looking into this; we are reviewing what is possible,” referring to the situation of Harrods survivors as well.
She noted the existence of a statutory inquiry already underway for victims of grooming gangs, and added, “I have been assured that the prime minister is taking this very seriously.”
Justice minister Jake Richards acknowledged the possibility of a public inquiry during a statement to Sky News, noting discussions among government officials regarding what can be done considering the scale of the alleged crimes. “No stone should be left unturned,” he asserted, indicating that the prime minister would approach this matter thoughtfully.
Epstein survivor Lisa Phillips expressed hope that her meeting with Mr. Burnham would signal the start of a new chapter where survivors’ voices are recognised, lessons are learned, and institutions held accountable where necessary.
Meanwhile, leading Labour campaigners focused on Violence Against Women and Girls have submitted a document to Mr. Burnham, advocating for an “impunity inquiry” that addresses Epstein’s UK activities, the conduct of Al Fayed, and allegations against West Ham co-owner David Sullivan. Accusations against Sullivan arose from a joint investigation by BBC Panorama and The Times, citing sexually exploitative behavior towards seven women.
The document notably calls for the inquiry to explore how Epstein managed to travel in and out of UK military bases on his private jet, often with women purportedly trafficked.
