Leeds NHS chiefs approve Savile probe remit

Directors of the Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust have now ratified the terms of reference for the inquiry into the DJ’s association with Leeds General Infirmary and the city’s hospitals.

The move follows allegations of sexual assault that emerged earlier this year.

The investigation will look at his roles, as well as consider whether he had special access or privileges because of his celebrity status.

It will also review past and current complaints about his behaviour at any of the Leeds hospitals, as well as look at the television star’s fundraising activities.

The inquiry will work with former barrister Kate Lampard, who has been appointed by the Secretary of State for Health, to oversee investigations at Broadmoor Hospital and Stoke Mandeville.

Its panel includes Maggie Boyle, the chief executive of LTHT and will be led by Professor Sue Proctor, the former chief nurse of Yorkshire and Humber Strategic Health Authority.

Investigations should be completed next year.

Miss Boyle told a meeting of hospital directors that it would be a “tough and thorough” investigation, adding: “We have worked closely with other NHS organisations and the Department of Health to ensure there is a consistency of approach and that findings are shared with all.

“Given the timespan over which Jimmy Savile was associated with Leeds General Infirmary, it is anticipated that it may take many months to review documents and speak to people affected by the situation.”

She also said that the trust was considering appointing a member of staff to work on the enquiry full-time, given the amount of information needing to be processed.

The Yorkshire Post revealed earlier this month that the Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust said the number of alleged incidents involving Savile on its premises currently stands at six.