UK PM Burnham Considering Inquiry into Epstein, Minister Says
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- British Prime Minister Andy Burnham is considering a public inquiry into the activities of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein in the UK.
- The scandal has already led to the arrest of Prince Andrew and former British ambassador Peter Mandelson.
- Police are investigating multiple allegations against Epstein, including child sex abuse and trafficking.
British Prime Minister Andy Burnham is exploring the possibility of launching a public inquiry into convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein's operations within the United Kingdom. This potential inquiry follows years of revelations that have significantly impacted the British establishment.
Alex Davies-Jones, the victims minister, confirmed to the BBC that the government is "looking into this" and assessing what is feasible. The Epstein scandal has already seen prominent figures arrested, including Prince Andrew, King Charles' brother, and Peter Mandelson, the former British ambassador to the United States.
Burnham, who assumed the prime ministership in July, is scheduled to meet with Epstein's victims. Davies-Jones indicated that a public inquiry could be a subsequent step, depending on the outcome of these discussions and the ongoing investigations.
British law enforcement agencies are actively investigating a range of allegations linked to the disgraced financier. These investigations encompass potential offenses such as child sex abuse, trafficking women through UK airports, and misconduct in public office, underscoring the wide-reaching nature of Epstein's alleged criminal activities.
We are looking into this. We are seeing what is possible.
Originally published by Asharq Al-Awsat. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.