1. London
  2. 5 updates

Cliff Richard investigation 'increases significantly'

The police investigation into veteran singer Sir Cliff Richard has "increased significantly in size" since its inception and involves "more than one allegation", South Yorkshire's Chief Constable has revealed.

Live updates

Cliff Richard: I have no idea where these absurd and untrue allegations come from

In a statement, Cliff Richard said:

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 cooperated fully with the police, and will, of course, continue to do so. 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. In the meantime, I would, again, like to thank everyone for supporting me through this unbelievably difficult period.

– Cliff Richard

Advertisement

Police chief: Detectives in 'very regular contact' with Sir Cliff Richard's lawyers

In his letter, South Yorkshire's Chief Constable, David Crompton, said:

South Yorkshire Police detectives are in very regular contact with Sir Cliff Richard's lawyers. Typically this involves a verbal update about once a fortnight. We have not written directly to Sir Cliff Richard. It is the responsibility of his lawyers to ensure he is fully briefed on the conversations which have taken place with investigators. This is an investigation which has increased significantly in size since its inception. Sir Cliff Richard's lawyers are aware that 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; however, we are progressing as swiftly as possible.

– David Crompton, South Yorkshire's Chief Constable

Two paragraphs of the letter from Mr Crompton were blacked out before being released.

Letter publication follows scathing independent report

The publication of the letter from South Yorkshire's Chief Constable, dated February 10, followed a scathing independent report into an agreement between South Yorkshire Police and the BBC which led to a raid on the singer's home being broadcast live around the world.

Credit: PA

The independent report found that the deal "certainly interfered with his privacy and may well have caused unnecessary distress".

Following the raid, Sir Cliff was interviewed by detectives investigating a claim of a sex crime involving a young boy, but was not arrested or charged.

Former chief constable Andy Trotter said South Yorkshire Police should never have a made a deal with the broadcaster - a decision taken after BBC reporter Dan Johnson went to the force saying he knew they were investigating the veteran entertainer.

South Yorkshire's Chief Constable, David Crompton, said a Metropolitan Police investigation into the source of the leak to the BBC had been unable to find the source.

Cliff Richard investigation 'increases significantly'

The police investigation into veteran singer Sir Cliff Richard has "increased significantly in size" since its inception and involves "more than one allegation", South Yorkshire's Chief Constable has revealed.

Credit: PA

David Crompton said the "expanding nature" of the investigation meant he could not give a date when it would be concluded. In a letter to Keith Vaz, chairman of the Commons Home Affairs Select Committee, Mr Crompton said the force was in regular contact with Sir Cliff's lawyers.

Back to top

Latest ITV News reports