Prime Minister Andy Burnham is "looking into" the possibility of launching a public inquiry into the UK activities of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, according to Victims Minister Alex Davies-Jones.

Davies-Jones confirmed that the government is also examining whether the alleged actions of former Harrods owner Mohamed Al Fayed could be included in such an inquiry. The focus on these potential investigations comes as the Prime Minister has agreed to meet with Epstein's victims.

Speaking to BBC Newsnight, Davies-Jones stated that the government is "looking at this, we are reviewing what is possible." She added that she has been assured the Prime Minister is taking the matter "very seriously" and, with access to all necessary information, is reviewing what actions can be taken.

This development follows Davies-Jones's previous resignation in May from the former Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer's government, during which she accused the administration of failing to heed the concerns of Epstein's survivors. Her reappointment as victims minister occurred after Burnham took office.

During her reappointment discussions, Davies-Jones said she spoke with the Prime Minister and Cabinet Secretary Dame Antonia Romeo about holding a public inquiry into the alleged behaviour of both Epstein and Al Fayed. She highlighted that Burnham had previously agreed to meet with Epstein's victims before becoming Prime Minister and has assured her he will proceed with these meetings now.

BBC Newsnight understands that as Burnham was preparing to assume the premiership, he received a document from prominent campaigners against Violence Against Women and Girls. This document specifically suggested a full public inquiry into Epstein's UK operations, Al Fayed's alleged conduct, and allegations concerning West Ham co-owner David Sullivan, who has denied the claims made against him.

The campaigners' document called for an "impunity inquiry" to investigate how powerful individuals might have allegedly carried out such behaviours. It specifically requested a focus on Epstein's ability to travel in and out of UK military bases on his private jet, often accompanied by women who were allegedly trafficked, a point previously raised by former Prime Minister Gordon Brown.

Anouska di Georgiou, who identifies as an Epstein survivor, expressed her welcome for the reports that Prime Minister Andy Burnham is considering public inquiries. The potential for these investigations signals a significant step towards addressing long-standing concerns raised by victims regarding the alleged actions of powerful figures within the UK.