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REX/Amer Ghazzal
UK News

Sir Cliff to take sex abuse suspect anonymity plea to Lords

The Christian entertainer will lobby for a change in the law when he meets peers in a committee room on 17th October, according to the Mail on Sunday.

It emerged in June that the 75 year old would not be prosecuted over allegations of historical sexual abuse by four men dating back to between 1958 and 1983.

Speaking at the time, he said: "I am obviously thrilled that the vile accusations and the resulting investigation have finally been brought to a close."

"Other than in exceptional cases, people who are facing allegations should never be named publicly until charged. I was named before I was even interviewed and for me that was like being hung out like 'live bait'.

"It is obvious that such strategies simply increase the risk of attracting spurious claims which not only tie up police resources and waste public funds, but they forever tarnish the reputations of innocent people."

Joe Giddens/PA Wire

Sir Cliff Richard is supporting a proposed ammendment to the Policing and Crime Bill, which the lords are due to debate in a few weeks time, to ensure a suspects' anonymity is protected until they are charged.

The proposed change was made by Lib Dem peer and former-Scotland Yard chief, Lord Paddick, who was quoted by the Mail on Sunday as saying: "It's important to hear from those who have been affected so that Parliament can have an informed debate.

"The recent developments where we've had high-profile individuals, both living and dead, who have had allegations made against them have prompted, at least, for there to be a debate to be had."

The Crown Prosecution Service is currently conducting a second review into whether it was right to decide Sir Cliff Richard would face no charges or further action.

He has always denied any wrongdoing.

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