Harrods’ managing director, Michael Ward, has formally apologised over allegations against former owner Mohamed Al Fayed.
- Ward expressed regret during an interview with the BBC, marking his first public apology on the matter.
- Allegations surfaced after a BBC documentary, prompting legal claims from over 250 women alleging misconduct.
- The store’s current owners are investigating any involvement of present staff in these allegations.
- Both the public statement from Ward and ongoing investigations highlight the seriousness with which Harrods is treating these accusations.
Harrods’ managing director, Michael Ward, has issued a formal apology concerning allegations of sexual abuse by the store’s late former owner, Mohamed Al Fayed. During a recent BBC interview held at Harrods’ headquarters, Ward stated: ‘I am very dreadfully sorry for what has happened with Al Fayed.’ Previously, Ward, who worked with Al Fayed until 2010, claimed he was unaware of any misconduct during his tenure.
These allegations came to light following a BBC documentary aired in September, which disclosed decades of purportedly serious sexual misconduct and assault by Al Fayed, who owned Harrods from 1985 to 2010. This exposé has led to over 250 claims for compensation from women alleging abuse. Harrods’ new proprietors have expressed being ‘appalled’ by these revelations and acknowledged a failure in protecting their colleagues.
Furthermore, the management has been proactive in their response, committing to an internal investigation to ascertain whether any current employees were complicit or aware of the misconduct. The gravity of these allegations has pressured the company to ensure transparency and accountability moving forward.
Attempts by the BBC to secure further commentary from Ward on what Harrods’ senior staff knew at the time were declined, with the only public statement being that the retailer had ‘nothing further to add.’ This response underscores the cautious approach Harrods is taking while legal proceedings and investigations are underway.
Harrods continues to navigate the fallout from these allegations, striving for accountability and justice both internally and externally.
