Burnham considers Epstein inquiry as government rules out national probe

Andy Burnham is considering a public inquiry into Jeffrey Epstein's activities in the UK, even as the national government rules one out. The Guardian reports Burnham is weighing the option, while The Mirror confirms no public inquiry is planned at Westminster level, though the Prime Minister will meet victims.

The split creates an unusual situation: a regional leader potentially investigating matters the national government has declined to pursue. The Daily Express describes it as a "Labour blunder" that Burnham was forced to address after a minister's comments. The Independent confirms Burnham is considering an inquiry into Epstein claims.

Epstein's UK activities have been the subject of sustained public interest, but no formal investigation has been launched by national authorities. A regional inquiry would have limited powers compared to a national one, unable to compel testimony from figures outside its jurisdiction or access classified material held by national security agencies.

Whether Burnham proceeds will depend partly on what powers he believes a Greater Manchester inquiry could meaningfully exercise. The question is not only what happened, but what a regional body can actually uncover when the national government has already chosen not to look.