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'Serious failings' at BBC allowed Savile to abuse 72 people

“Serious failings” at the BBC allowed Jimmy Savile to rape and sexually assault 72 people, a damning report has found.

Dame Janet Smith's review found there was a culture of "reverence and fear" towards celebrities at the corporation.

One employee who complained about Savile was told: "Keep your mouth shut, he is a VIP."

After the report's publication, BBC director-general Lord Hall apologised to the victims, saying: "The BBC failed you when it should have protected you."

Follow ITV News for the latest reaction to the report.

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Victims' lawyer: Savile report 'an expensive whitewash'

Liz Dux represents 168 victims. Credit: PA

The report into the abuse of Jimmy Savile and Stuart Hall is "nothing more than an expensive whitewash", a lawyer representing victims has said.

Liz Dux, who represents 168 victims, said "the truth has still not been unearthed".

"All the Savile and Hall victims have ever wanted from this report is truth and accountability," she said.

"Despite millions having been spent on the inquiry, my clients will feel let down that the truth has still not been unearthed and many will feel it is nothing more than an expensive whitewash.

"It is unfortunate that Dame Janet had no power to compel senior managers to give evidence, giving the impression that the whole picture of who knew what has not been revealed."

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'Serious failings' at BBC allowed Savile to abuse 72 people

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