Child abuse inquiry to probe 'people of prominence' linked to Westminster

The Anglican and Catholic churches and "certain people of public prominence associated with Westminster" are facing investigation in the independent child abuse inquiry, it was announced today.

Justice Lowell Goddard, who is leading the probe, also said councils in Lambeth, Nottinghamshire and Rochdale will be examined.

Speaking in central London the judge set out 12 different areas which will come under scrutiny.

The probe was set up last year following claims of a high-level cover up of abuse and has been beset by delays following the resignations of two previous chairwomen.

It will be Britain's largest-ever public inquiry and is expected to take up to five years and cost tens of millions of pounds.