MP Tom Watson believes Kent Police have questions to answer

by political editor Paul Francis

Kent Police has been named by Labour MP Tom Watson as among forces facing claims they failed to properly pursue child abuse allegations.

The campaigning MP identified Kent Police in a letter to the Prime Minister about the inquiry the government has set up to investigate historic allegations of organised abuse.

Mr Cameron has ordered two inquiries, one of which will consider allegations of abuse in north Wales and suggestions a senior Conservative official was involved as part of an organised paedophile ring.

Kent Police said it has had no contact with Mr Watson, but would be "more
than happy" to address any concerns he had about previous investigations.

Det Supt Tim Smith, head of public protection at Kent Police, said: "We have an excellent track record in investigating child abuse and in securing significant prison sentences for those who are guilty of such appalling offences.

"We have not had any contact from Mr Watson, nor does he reference any specific cases investigated by Kent Police in his letter to the Prime Minister, but if he has any concerns we are more than happy to address these."

In his letter, Mr Watson said a wider inquiry was needed that would bring in other forces "known to be affected" and then lists 10, including Kent.

Although he does not detail claims against any, he says all the forces "need to have their archives systematically searched for intelligence from witnesses/victims making claims that were not investigated; investigations which were closed down and so on."