Abuse by showbiz predators like Russell Brand is ‘in all probability taking place immediately’, warns MP
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy has warned that the abuse carried out by showbiz predators, which she compared to Russell Brand, is “probably happening today” as the disgraced comedian is due to be sentenced
Russell Brand will learn his fate tomorrow(Image: Ian Vogler / Daily Mirror)
Abuse by showbiz predators like Russell Brand is “probably happening today” Lisa Nandy has warned. The Culture Secretary said TV and other media organisations hadn’t done enough to stop stars using fame to exploit women.
Vile Brand, 51, was convicted on Thursday of raping one woman and sexually assaulting three others during the early 00s.
Police said he used his “influence, status and fame to prey on and exploit women”.
Ms Nandy told Sky News’ Sunday Morning: “We need far more robust processes in place to protect women like the women who bravely came forward in the Russell Brand case.
Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Lisa Nandy has issued a warning (Image: (Christopher Furlong/Getty Images))
“I don’t think that the industry is doing enough to tackle it.”
Ms Nandy urged media organisations to sign up to the Creative Industries Independent Standards Authority – a body that protects whistleblowers.
She added the Government is “considering what further steps we can take”.
It came as 2010 footage re-emerged of Brand holding an “Obey” badge while being interviewed with ex-wife Katy Perry.
Brand was remanded in custody ahead of sentencing(Image: Metropolitan Police)
In July this year, on the first night of the her Out of Office UK tour, popstar Katy told fans in the audience: “I hope my ex isn’t here, he should be in jail.”
Brand, who was found not guilty of two further rape charges and one count of attempted indecent assault, has been warned he will receive a “significant custodial term” when he returns to court today.
Police have since revealed that more allegations against the former TV and radio host are being investigated.
The head of the Met, Sir Mark Rowley, said he “wouldn’t be surprised if many, many more come forward”.
