Heath child sex abuse probe

CHILD sex allegations involving Sir Edward Heath are at the centre of a police corruption investigation.

Watchdogs named the late Prime Minister as they announced Wiltshire Police is being probed over its response to an alleged abuse claim made in the 1990s.

The force appealed for potential victims to contact officers.

Sir Edward, who was PM for four years in the 1970s, is the highest-profile figure to be embroiled in historical abuse allegations against prominent figures.

The Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) said it is to investigate “allegations concerning Wiltshire Police’s handling of an alleged claim of child sexual abuse made in the 1990s”.

A spokesman said: “It is alleged a criminal prosecution was not pursued, when a person threatened to expose that Sir Edward Heath may have been involved in offences concerning children.

“In addition to this allegation, the

IPCC will examine whether Wiltshire Police subsequently took any steps to investigate these claims.”

The allegations have been referred to the watchdog following allegations made by a retired senior officer.

A police spokesman said: “Following the announcement regarding an independ- ent investigation by the IPCC into allegations concerning how Wiltshire Police handled an alleged claim of child sex abuse made in the 1990s, we are carrying out inquiries to identify if there are any witnesses or victims who support the allegations.”

He confirmed Sir Edward was “named in relation to offences concerning children”, adding: “He lived in Salisbury for many years and we would like to hear from anyone who has relevant information that may assist our inquiries or anyone who believes they may have been a victim.

“If there is evidence of offences having been committed we will ensure, if possible, those responsible are held to account through a thorough and detailed investigation.”