Key questions faced by the police inquiry
Q Why haven’t the 42 allegations come to police attention before?
A Several did but were dismissed as bogus. Mr Veale reopened complaints buried in police files. The report says some did not complain at the time because they feared they would be ignored in an age when such complaints against VIPs were rarely investigated.
Q If only seven ‘victims’ would warrant police action, are the others bogus?
AN ot necessarily. Police erred on the side of caution, and at least two were left out of the top category at the last minute.
Q Since Heath had police protection for much of his life, how could he abuse young boys without police knowing?
A Police who guarded Heath said that they did not always watch him 24 hours a day. There were lengthy spells when he had no protection.
Q Some of Heath’s friends said he never owned a car.
A Heath owned two cars – a Rover 2000 and Vauxhall Viva.
Q Does the report prove Sir Edward was guilty of anything?
A No. The inquiry did not have the power to do that and would need more evidence even to consider recommending prosecution.
Q What happens now?
A The Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse said last month it is to study whether the report has any relevance to claims of an historic Westminster child sex ring and allegations of a cover-up involving Government Whips.