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Wiltshire Police defend Edward Heath investigation 'No evidence' Heath prosecution dropped
(about 7 hours later)
A child sex abuse inquiry into Sir Edward Heath that has cost £368,000 has been defended by a chief constable. The police watchdog has found no evidence a prosecution was not pursued in a child sex abuse inquiry into Sir Edward Heath by Wiltshire Police.
It had been claimed a defendant threatened to allege publicly that Sir Edward had been involved in sexual offences involving young men.
The force chief constable has defended the £368,000 spent on an inquiry.
Sixteen officers from Wiltshire Police are looking into historical allegations against the former prime minister.Sixteen officers from Wiltshire Police are looking into historical allegations against the former prime minister.
Chief Constable Mike Veale has written to the Home Affairs Select Committee to say he is "satisfied the length of this investigation is proportionate".Chief Constable Mike Veale has written to the Home Affairs Select Committee to say he is "satisfied the length of this investigation is proportionate".
Sir Edward, who led the Conservative government between 1970 and 1974, died aged 89 in July 2005.Sir Edward, who led the Conservative government between 1970 and 1974, died aged 89 in July 2005.
The force launched an investigation into abuse allegations in August.The force launched an investigation into abuse allegations in August.
'Concerns expressed'
Former friends and colleagues of Sir Edward have defended his reputation and criticised the way the inquiry is being handled.Former friends and colleagues of Sir Edward have defended his reputation and criticised the way the inquiry is being handled.
In the letter to the committee, Mr Veale said: "As with all investigations, the length of the enquiry will usually be commensurate with the complexity, seriousness and volume of allegations.
"I would ask no inference is drawn, suffice to say I am satisfied the length of this investigation is proportionate."
He said he was "committed to going where the evidence leads".
Committee chairman Keith Vaz said: "Concerns have been expressed to the committee over the rationale for this investigation and its cost.
"Ministers have previously criticised the inappropriate decision for a senior police officer to appeal for individuals to come forward with information at the gates of Sir Edward Heath's former home.
"We will be monitoring this issue closely."