Cyril Smith abuse claims investigated

Published on 22/11/2012 01:51

SEX abuse allegations involving the late politician Sir Cyril Smith are to be investigated by a second police force.

Officers from Greater Manchester Police (GMP) will look into claims that the former Liberal MP for Rochdale was involved in abuse at a hostel for boys and young men in the town.

GMP will look at cases which date back to 1974, when the force was created. Any before that will be investigated by Lancashire Police, who previously covered Rochdale.

The GMP force will now trawl its pre-computerised records to see if any complaints were made during the 1980s and 90s.

Prime Minister David Cameron yesterday said: “I understand that Greater Manchester Police have today confirmed they will now investigate any allegations of sexual abuse involving the late Sir Cyril Smith that happened from 1974 onwards.”

“I would say, particularly in light of what’s happened over the last few weeks, if anyone has information, if anyone has facts, then take them to the police.”

Sir Cyril, who died in 2010, faced rumours of abuse throughout his 20-year career in parliament, with allegations being published twice. He never faced any charges.