Prime Minister Declines to Comment on King Meeting Epstein Victims
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has declined to state whether he believes King Charles should meet with victims of paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein during next month's state visit to the United States. The refusal came during a press conference on Wednesday, where Starmer was asked about the moral case for such a meeting.
Calls from Victims' Family and US Congressman
US Congressman Ro Khanna and the family of Virginia Giuffre have publicly urged King Charles to meet with survivors during his visit to the US in late April. Sky Roberts, Ms Giuffre's brother, and Amanda Roberts, her sister-in-law, issued a statement to BBC Newsnight strongly encouraging the King to engage with them and other victims.
The statement highlighted that the visit coincides with a deeply personal time for the family, occurring just two days after the one-year anniversary of Virginia Giuffre's death by suicide. They expressed gratitude for Charles's previous actions in stripping his brother, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, of his prince title following allegations, but urged continued dialogue to push for justice against Epstein's co-conspirators.
Prime Minister's Focus on Diplomatic Celebrations
When pressed by reporters, Sir Keir Starmer avoided direct commentary on the meeting requests, instead emphasising the visit's primary purpose. He stated, "In relation to the King, I think it's important to appreciate this is part of the 250 celebrations. It's a long-planned visit, and the US and UK are close allies, have been for a very, very long time."
It is understood that logistical and legal constraints, including ongoing UK police investigations into Epstein-related matters, may prevent such meetings from occurring during the state visit.
Background on Epstein Investigations and Arrests
The National Police Chiefs' Council announced on Tuesday that the police response to the release of Epstein files by the US Department of Justice will be intensified. A dedicated group will examine potential UK-based violence against women and girls offences within the documents, and alleged victims have been invited to speak with investigators.
This development follows the arrests in February of Andrew, the former Duke of York, and Lord Peter Mandelson, the former UK ambassador to the US, on suspicion of misconduct in public office linked to Epstein. Both have since been released under investigation.
State Visit Details and Royal Family Dynamics
King Charles and Queen Camilla's historic trip is scheduled for April 27-30, despite calls for postponement due to Middle East conflicts. US President Donald Trump has praised the visit as a "momentous occasion" on Truth Social, noting a White House banquet on April 28.
Meanwhile, Prince Harry, who lives in the US with his family, will not meet his father during the visit, according to sources. The King, who is undergoing cancer treatment, last saw Harry six months ago and his grandchildren nearly four years ago, highlighting ongoing familial tensions amidst the diplomatic proceedings.
