Alex Davies-Jones said she raised the prospect of a formal inquiry into matters linked to **Jeffrey Epstein** when she was re-appointed to her ministerial post, and told **BBC Newsnight** that **Burnham** was “looking into” conducting a separate inquiry. The minister attributed the information to recent discussions with the **Prime Minister**, indicating the issue has been raised at ministerial level.
Davies-Jones, who serves as the government’s victims minister, described her reappointment discussions as an opportunity to consider further scrutiny for allegations and networks associated with **Jeffrey Epstein**. She told the programme that she had spoken directly with the **Prime Minister** about the need to explore options, but did not specify dates or the precise scope of any proposed review.
The minister also said that **Andy Burnham**, in his capacity as a senior elected official, had started to examine whether a locally led inquiry would be appropriate. Davies-Jones framed Burnham’s activity as exploratory, noting that decisions on formal public inquiries involve legal, evidential and resource considerations and require coordination with national agencies and offices.
Officials emphasised that any proposal for a public inquiry would need to align with existing legal frameworks and to take account of ongoing law enforcement work. Davies-Jones said ministers must consult with the **Prime Minister’s office**, the **police** and prosecuting authorities before a formal process could be launched, and that safeguarding the interests of victims and ensuring the integrity of criminal investigations are key priorities.
The minister’s remarks add to continuing public and political attention on calls for further scrutiny of matters connected to **Jeffrey Epstein**. Neither the **Prime Minister’s office** nor **Andy Burnham’s** team had published a detailed plan at the time of the broadcast; officials indicated any determination on scope and timetable would be communicated once procedural steps and inter-agency consultations are complete. **BBC Newsnight** broadcast the interview in which the minister outlined these discussions.
