WILTSHIRE Police are due to be investigated regarding the handling of an alleged child sexual abuse claim against former Prime Minister Sir Edward Heath.

The Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) is to investigate allegations concerning Wiltshire Police’s handling of the claim made in the 1990s.

It is alleged that a criminal prosecution was not pursued, when a person threatened to expose that Sir Edward Heath may have been involved in offences concerning children.

In addition to this allegation, the IPCC will examine whether Wiltshire Police subsequently took any steps to investigate these claims.

The allegations were referred to the IPCC by Wiltshire Police following allegations made by a retired senior officer.

Wiltshire Police issued a statement following the IPCC’s announcement. It read: “On becoming aware of the information, Wiltshire Police informed the IPCC and later made a mandatory referral.

"The IPCC investigation will specifically consider how the Force responded to allegations when they were received in the 1990’s.

“Sir Edward Heath has been named in relation to offences concerning children. He lived in Salisbury for many years and we would like to hear from anyone who has any relevant information that may assist us in our enquiries or anyone who believes they may have been a victim."

A spokesperson for the Police and Crime Commissioner said: “Wiltshire Police referred the allegations to the IPCC, and advised my office of the referral.

“The progress of this investigation has been monitored by my office at every stage and I am satisfied that the necessary momentum and engagement with the IPCC has been maintained by Wiltshire Police since the information was received.

“It is important that the IPCC investigation is given full co-operation. I will be watching closely to see if any evidence of corruption or poor practice is uncovered.

“My priority as Commissioner is to put the interests of victims at the heart of everything we do, as well as holding the Force to account for its performance.

“We have often seen from high profile national cases that victims, who have not spoken of their abuse for many years, find their voice and speak out. I want any victims of child sex abuse, whether current or historic, to know they can have confidence in the service they will receive from Wiltshire Police."