Police Scotland is facing renewed pressure to reopen an investigation into a rape allegation against the late Harrods owner, Mohamed al Fayed.
Parliamentary group demands action
The call comes from a Westminster all-party parliamentary group (APPG) established last week. The group's co-chairs, Wendy Chamberlain – deputy leader of the Scottish Liberal Democrats and a former police officer – and Labour MP Dave Robertson, have written to Scotland's Chief Constable, Jo Farrell.
In their letter, they urge a reassessment of the decision to close a probe into an allegation of rape at al Fayed's estate in the Scottish Highlands. They cite the ongoing Metropolitan Police investigation and the interest of the Independent Office for Police Conduct in earlier complaints as grounds for a fresh look.
Scale of allegations described as 'vast'
The APPG highlighted the extraordinary scale of accusations against the businessman, who died in August 2023 at the age of 94. More than 400 allegations of sexual misconduct have been made, with the earliest dating back to 1977.
"The scale of the offences Fayed is accused of is vast," the letter stated. It added that there are "more than 400 known survivors, with more women coming forward." Given accounts of trafficking and abuse crossing international borders, the group argues it is "entirely likely that crimes were committed within Scotland."
Police and Harrods respond
A spokesperson for Police Scotland confirmed the force had received the correspondence and said it "will respond in due course." Previously, the force had stated the investigation could be reopened if new information emerged.
Meanwhile, a spokesperson for Harrods reiterated the retailer's support for survivors, encouraging them to use the Harrods redress scheme, which remains open for compensation claims until 31 March 2026. The statement also urged survivors to "look at every avenue open to them in their pursuit of justice, whether that be the police or the Fayed family and estate."
The establishment of the APPG signifies sustained political scrutiny on the handling of the numerous allegations against the former retail tycoon, ensuring the case remains in the public eye.
