Prime Minister Andy Burnham is not currently considering a public inquiry into the activities of convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein in the United Kingdom, despite earlier statements by government ministers suggesting otherwise. This clarification comes amid growing calls from victims and advocacy groups for a thorough investigation into Epstein's UK connections.

Victims Minister Alex Davies-Jones previously indicated that the government was “looking into” the possibility of a public inquiry. She also referenced a potential inquiry into alleged sexual misconduct accusations against Mohamed Al Fayed, the late former owner of Harrods and Fulham Football Club, who faced more than 400 allegations before his death in 2023. Davies-Jones noted that Prime Minister Burnham had agreed to meet with Epstein’s victims, who she argued had not been adequately heard by the previous Labour leadership under Sir Keir Starmer.

However, sources close to the prime minister have disclosed that Burnham is not actively pursuing a public inquiry at this time. A Ministry of Justice spokesperson reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting victims and survivors and acknowledged that officials are reviewing “what is possible” with regard to responses and systemic changes. The spokesperson confirmed that while the prime minister is committed to meeting with Epstein’s victims, a formal inquiry is not under active consideration.

The matter has been the subject of some internal government debate. Justice Minister Jake Richards had suggested that an inquiry might be possible, stating that Davies-Jones had spoken with Burnham and that all available options were being explored. Davies-Jones herself had resigned from Starmer’s government in May, citing concerns that victims were not being taken seriously, particularly regarding the appointment of Lord Mandelson as ambassador to Washington.

Since assuming office, Burnham has reportedly reassured Davies-Jones of his intention to engage directly with Epstein survivors and to work toward systemic reforms aimed at better supporting all victims of sexual abuse. The government remains under pressure from advocacy groups and some parliamentarians to provide a clear plan of action concerning Epstein and associated cases, but as of now, no official inquiry has been announced.