Harrods managing director Michael Ward responds to allegations against Mohamed Al Fayed.
- Ward admits the luxury store failed numerous female employees under Al Fayed’s ownership.
- He clarifies that no official accusations were made to him during Al Fayed’s tenure.
- The response follows a BBC documentary featuring testimonies from alleged victims.
- Harrods provides a platform for victims to claim compensation efficiently.
Michael Ward, managing director of Harrods, has publicly addressed serious allegations of sexual abuse against the former owner Mohamed Al Fayed. Ward expressed remorse for the store’s past failures, acknowledging the courage of the survivors who have come forward with their stories. He stated, ‘We have all seen the survivors bravely speak about the terrible abuse they suffered at the hands of Harrods former owner Mohamed Fayed. As we have already stated, we failed our colleagues and for that we are deeply sorry.’ This marked a significant admission from the luxury department store’s leadership.
Ward clarified that despite long-standing public rumours regarding Al Fayed’s conduct, he was never approached with formal charges or allegations through official channels, including the police and the Crown Prosecution Service, during his tenure from 2005 to 2010. ‘While it is true that rumours of his behaviour circulated in the public domain, no charges or allegations were ever put to me by the Police, the Crown Prosecution Service, internal channels or others. Had they been, I would of course have acted immediately,’ Ward added, addressing the perceived inaction during Al Fayed’s 25-year control of Harrods, acquired in 1985.
The timing of Ward’s statement aligns with the recent release of a BBC documentary and podcast titled ‘Al Fayed: Predator at Harrods,’ which broadcasted the experiences of women who claim to have been victimised during Al Fayed’s ownership. This has brought renewed scrutiny to the department store and its past management practices. In light of the revelations, Harrods has initiated steps to address the claims by establishing a dedicated webpage. This resource aims to assist current or former employees in coming forward with complaints of misconduct for expedited resolution, thus aiming to avoid protracted legal disputes.
Moreover, Harrods is conducting a thorough review to ascertain whether current staff might have been direct or indirect participants in the alleged abuses, indicating a commitment to organisational accountability and transparency. Al Fayed passed away on 30 August 2023, and the ownership of Harrods has since transitioned to the Qatari Royal Family via the Qatar Investment Authority, purchased for an estimated £1.5 billion.
Ward’s statement reflects a commitment to accountability and attempts to rectify past wrongs through swift and just measures.
