Probe opens into Huntley school job

An inquiry into how Soham murderer Ian Huntley was able to get a job as a school caretaker despite a string of sex allegations in his past was formally opened today.

In an opening statement, former Whitehall mandarin Michael Bichard, appointed by Home Secretary David Blunkett to head the inquiry, said: “My aim quite simply, is to discover first what happened, secondly why it happened and thirdly what lessons can be learned.”

Mr Bichard added: “I am not, however, sitting as a judge but as an independent and impartial individual.

"Although this inquiry is inquisitorial in nature it is not a trial or a disciplinary hearing, nor are the issues those of a law suit in which one party wins and another loses.

“Inevitably, my task will involve asking some tough questions and perhaps criticising individuals and organisations.

“You can be sure that I will not shirk from that if I consider it to be justified and necessary.

“However, I will make the process as fair as it can be and will ensure that those who might be subject to criticism have a fair opportunity to address areas of potential criticism in advance.”