Cambridge House and Knowl View to be investigated by Justice Lowell Goddard

Cambridge House boys' home and Knowl View, in Rochdale, will be investigated, including claims relating to the late Cyril Smith, by Justice Lowell Goddard as part of the wide ranging inquiry into allegations of child sexual abuse and subsequent cover ups.

Justice Lowell Goddard said Rochdale Council, along with Lambeth and Nottinghamshire councils, will also be examined as part of 12 separate investigations in England and Wales.

The scale of the inquiry was "unprecedented" in the UK, but she was determined it would succeed, she added.

The inquiry is due to take five years.

Justice Goddard said she was confident the range of investigations would "give a voice to victims and survivors".

Steve Rumbelow, Chief Executive of Rochdale Borough Council, said: “The council will give its full support to the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse and make available any resources it requires.

"Since 2012 we have worked alongside the police and other agencies to create what is now a nationally-recognised multi-agency team that investigates and prevents CSE, and protects victims and potential victims.”

Councillor Colin Lambert, former leader of Rochdale Borough Council, commented: "It is right that Rochdale Council and institutions within its boundary are to be part of the early work undertaken by Justice Goddard and her inquiry.

"It is also right that it has no time limit for how far back her team can investigate.

"Whilst ongoing investigations by the police and other authorities should continue to full conclusion and prosecutions, no stone should be left unturned by either inquiry and justice must be achieved for the many victims."

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-34940723