The UK government is considering launching a public inquiry into the activities of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein in Britain, as authorities continue examining allegations linked to his network and alleged crimes.
Victims Minister Alex Davies-Jones said the government was exploring a range of options, including a formal public inquiry, to determine whether a wider investigation is needed into Epstein’s activities and the institutional failures that may have allowed alleged abuses to continue.
“We are looking into this. We are seeing what is possible,” Davies-Jones said in an interview.
She added that Prime Minister Andy Burnham is expected to meet with survivors of Epstein’s abuse as part of the government’s efforts to engage with victims and consider the next steps.
The potential inquiry comes nearly seven years after Epstein’s death in a New York jail, with renewed global attention on his relationships, financial network and allegations involving powerful figures in politics, business and society.
British authorities are already examining allegations connected to Epstein, including claims of sexual abuse, the trafficking of women through UK airports and possible misconduct involving public officials.
Davies-Jones said any future inquiry could also consider wider allegations involving the late Egyptian-born billionaire Mohamed Al-Fayed, who has been accused by hundreds of women of rape and sexual assault. Al-Fayed, who died in 2023, denied previous allegations made against him during his lifetime.
The minister said the government was carefully assessing the most appropriate form of investigation, while ensuring that the experiences and concerns of victims remain at the centre of any process.
The possible inquiry reflects growing pressure on authorities to examine how allegations involving wealthy and influential individuals were handled over several decades, and whether institutions failed to adequately protect victims.
Any decision to establish a formal public inquiry would mark a significant step in the UK’s examination of historic abuse allegations and the systems responsible for responding to them.
