JIMMY SAVILE

I've been away for a bit so not had a chance to blog about the late Jimmy Savile.

Like many others my first reaction was to wonder whether there was any real benefit in pursuing the allegations given Savile's death.  No way to defend himself etc. Originally we heard allegations relating to the abuse of ~14 year old girls.  Later alleged abuse relating to younger girls and boys and alleged necrophilia.  Whilst doubting the practicability of collecting evidence of necrophilia I think we all quickly went to judgement on the other allegations.

The involvement of the BBC and others in alleged cover-ups soon clouded the situation somewhat; that is the focus seemed to change from the alleged behaviour of Jimmy Savile to the alleged behaviour of individuals part of the media in cover up or complicity.

Let's not forget.  If ultimately charges are brought then the Courts will decide.  That is the order of things. 

Of broader interest is the possibility that persons from all walks of life will now be spurred on to make similar allegations in respect of historic incidents which could well have been real but might have been imagined, and may even have been fabricated. Such allegations against previous workmates, family, friends or relatives, or anyone (there is no limit) will stand or fall on the balance of acceptable evidence. 

Until hard evidence of wrongdoing in the media or by individuals is produced, any charges brought, and decisions of  the Court reached, it's prudent to reserve personal judgement. 

Lets just hope the need to reach any judgement remains with a U.K. court and doesn't find its way to the horrendous European Court of Human Rights. Recent judgements there beggar belief.