Police investigating the Grenfell Tower fire have urged prosecutors to consider charges, including manslaughter and fraud, against various companies and individuals.
The Metropolitan Police revealed that they have submitted evidence related to 20 entities and 54 individuals, marking what they termed a “milestone moment.” Andy Burnham, joining survivors’ groups, expressed concern over the lengthy process but pledged to support Grenfell families in their quest for justice.
Potential charges could include corporate manslaughter, gross negligence manslaughter, health and safety violations, and misconduct in public office. Housing secretary Angela Rayner announced that files passed to prosecutors also involve her department, which has been under investigation for possible breaches of the Health and Safety at Work Act since 2023. She acknowledged the importance of the situation and emphasised the need for careful examination.
The inquiry has scrutinised over 15,000 individuals and 700 organisations, submitting 12,600 pages of evidence, including 14,700 witness statements and over 27,000 exhibits related to the tower.
The 14 June 2017 fire in North Kensington claimed 72 lives and has been described as avoidable, highlighting failures by the government to address fire safety. A public inquiry in 2024 found it resulted from decades of neglect and corporate dishonesty regarding flammable cladding.
The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) aims to make charging decisions by the 10th anniversary of the disaster, set for 14 June 2027. Kevin Southworth, a deputy assistant commissioner at the Met, acknowledged the complexity of the investigation but assured that every effort was being made to present robust evidence.
Grenfell United, representing bereaved families, expressed hope for progress and accountability, stating, “Our families have waited long enough… If people are found guilty, we want to see them behind bars.”
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak noted the investigation has taken time, due to its complexity, while Burnham highlighted the need for accountability in such cases. Frank Ferguson, head of the CPS’s special crime division, confirmed their commitment to concluding the process before next year’s anniversary.
