Harrods boss breaks silence over Mohamed Al Fayed claims with bombshell statement

The managing director of Harrods has broken his silence over the claims made against Mohamed Al Fayed, accusing him of presiding "over a toxic culture of secrecy, intimidation, fear of repercussion and sexual misconduct".

Al-Fayed - the former owner luxury department store who died aged 94 - has been accused of rape and sexual assault by a string of numerous former employees.

Last week, more than 20 women spoke to the BBC as part of a special investigation, coming forward with allegations of assault and physical violence at properties in London and Paris.

Now Michael Ward, the current managing director of Harrods, has issued a written statement.

He said: "As managing director of Harrods, I wanted to convey my personal horror at the revelations that have emerged over the past week. We have all seen the survivors bravely speak about the terrible abuse they suffered at the hands of Harrods former owner Mohamed Fayed.

"As we have already stated, we failed our colleagues and for that we are deeply sorry.

"As somene who has worked at Harrods since 2006, and therefore worked for Fayed until the change of ownership in 2010, I feel it is important to make it clear that I was not aware of his criminality and abuse. While it is true that rumours of his behaviour circulated in the public domain, no charges or allegations were ever put to me by the Police, the CPS, internal channels or others.

"Had they been, I would of course have acted immediately."

Mr Ward added: "Fayed, who owned Harrods from 1985 – 2010, operated this business as his own personal fiefdom. It is now clear that he presided over a toxic culture of secrecy, intimidation, fear of repercussion and sexual misconduct. The picture that is now emerging suggests that he did this wherever he operated.

"This was a shameful period in the business’ history, however the Harrods of today is unrecognisable to Harrods under his ownership.

"As detailed, new information has come to light over the past 18 months, the business has established a settlement process, designed in consultation with independent external experts in personal injury litigation. We encourage former colleagues to contact us using this process so that we can provide the support, and recourse, they need.

"Alongside this, there is an independent review led by a non-executive committee of the Board to further consider the issues arising from the allegations.

"I am not part of the committee conducting this review and will in no way influence its operation or recommendations.

"However, I have provided all the information I have to ensure my own conduct can be reviewed alongside that of my colleagues. I have also stepped back from my charity trustee positions while this review is taking place."

The Metropolitan Police is "asking any potential victim-survivors who may not have come forward before to do so".

Officers are currently "making contact with other organisations, including lawyers representing individuals whose allegations have featured in recent media coverage, to ensure they have the opportunity to speak with us and report any offences."

Commander Stephen Clayman said: "We recognise the significance of the allegations made against Mohamed Al Fayed and the impact this has had on those affected. It is vital that any victims have a voice and are able to report any allegations if they have not done so before, and know that they will be taken seriously. We have specialist teams to ensure all those victims who make contact with us are supported in the best way possible.

"I understand that for many years many people have sought answers in relation to this case. We will do everything possible to update on our progress when we can, but it is crucial we do this thoroughly and we do it right."