Epstein survivor to meet Starmer's chief secretary Darren Jones as PM says his 'door is open'

Sir Keir Starmer has told a Jeffrey Epstein survivor his "door is open" but stopped short of agreeing to meet Lisa Phillips, directing her to a more junior government minister.

He wrote: "As a first step, my Chief Secretary will meet with you to discuss the issues raised in your letter."

Sky News understands a meeting with Darren Jones has been scheduled for Tuesday next week with former victims' minister Alex Davies Jones, who has supported Lisa's campaign, also attending.

Ms Phillips had written to the prime minister three times asking for a meeting, although Sky News understands that because she is not a constituent, only the second letter reached him.

In the letter to Ms Phillips and human rights campaigner Carly Hamilton, the prime minister praised their "incredible bravery" and said he shared their determination to tackle sexual exploitation and abuse.

But while Sir Keir said he remained committed to securing justice for victims, he did not answer their central question of whether he supports a UK public inquiry into Jeffrey Epstein.

Responding to the letter, the campaigners welcomed the prime minister's engagement but made clear they are still waiting for a direct answer.

"Our question has always been a simple one: Will Prime Minister Keir Starmer support a public inquiry?" they said. "We continue to seek a clear answer".

Their statement notably singled out a number of MPs, including Wes Streeting, Andy Burnham and Al Carns, who have all indicated they would enter a race to succeed Keir Starmer, to thank them for their support.

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In his letter, Sir Keir pointed to his record as director of public prosecutions and reiterated his pledge to halve violence against women and girls.

Ms Phillips also called for clarification regarding Peter Mandelson following comments made in Westminster and said they looked forward to a "full and transparent response".

Their statement concluded: "No one should be above the law. The law must take its course."

(c) Sky News 2026: Epstein survivor to meet Starmer's chief secretary Darren Jones as PM says his 'door is open'