Victims minister Alex Davies-Jones has revealed that Prime Minister Andy Burnham is actively exploring the potential for a public inquiry regarding the UK activities of Jeffrey Epstein. Speaking to BBC Newsnight, Davies-Jones noted that the Prime Minister has committed to meeting with individuals who were abused by Epstein. The government is also examining whether similar investigations into the conduct of the late Harrods owner Mohamed Al Fayed should be included in such proceedings.
Davies-Jones, who was reappointed as victims minister after previously resigning from the government, indicated she held discussions regarding these inquiries with the Prime Minister and Dame Antonia Romeo, the cabinet secretary. She stated that the administration is taking the matter seriously and assessing available options now that the Prime Minister has access to relevant intelligence.
This initiative follows a proposal submitted by Labour campaigners for an overarching inquiry into systemic impunity regarding allegations against Epstein, Mohamed Al Fayed, and West Ham co-owner David Sullivan. While Sullivan has categorically denied the allegations against him, the proposed inquiry would focus on how prominent figures avoided accountability. This includes scrutinizing how Epstein accessed UK military installations. Epstein survivor Anouska di Georgiou noted that while the prospect of an inquiry is welcomed, survivors remain focused on seeing tangible government action rather than mere promises.
