News Digest

Cliff Richard sex assault inquiry ‘significally expanded’, say police

A UK police investigation into Sir Cliff Richard has “increased significantly in size” with the singer facing a number of allegations. The 74-year-old was questioned last August by detectives looking at claims of a sexual offence against a boy in 1985, which he vehemently denies. New developments in the case were revealed in a letter from South Yorkshire Police to Home Affairs Committee Chairman Keith Vaz. Richard (pictured), a fixture on the British pop scene since the late 1950s, has not been arrested or charged.

This is an investigation which has increased significantly in size since its inception. Sir Cliff Richard’s lawyers are aware there is more than one allegation.

Letter from South Yorkshire Police to Home Affairs Committee Chairman Keith Vaz

Sir Cliff Richard’s lawyers are aware there is more than one allegation. “In view of the expanding nature of the investigation, it would be premature and potentially misleading to predict a likely date when it will be concluded.” A statement from Cliff Richard said: “Beyond stating that the allegations are completely false, it would not be appropriate for me to say anything further until the investigation has concluded, which I hope will be very soon.” Sky News understands the accusation against the performer, which he was questioned about last year, dates back to an event held by American evangelist preacher Billy Graham in Sheffield in 1985. A report by the Home Affairs Select Committee in October said a highly publicised raid on the performer’s home in August was “inept” and caused “irreparable damage” to his reputation.

I have no idea where these absurd and untrue allegations come from. The police have not disclosed details to me. I have never, in my life, assaulted anyone and I remain confident that the truth will prevail. I have co-operated fully with the police, and will, of course, continue to do so.

Statement from Cliff Richard