Ex-Harrods CEO witnessed ‘abhorrent’ conduct by Mohamed Al-Fayed

A former Harrods chief executive has said he witnessed ‘abhorrent’ behaviour by the Knightsbridge store’s former owner Mohamed Al Fayed – but not sexual abuse.

James McArthur, who was chief executive for what he described as a ‘most unpleasant 10 months’ in 2008, told the BBC he was ‘not aware’ of any sexual abuse by the late Mr Al-Fayed.

Five women have alleged that they were raped by the Egyptian, who died last year aged 94, while a growing number of others have come forward with allegations of sexual misconduct.

‘While Fayed’s behaviour was often abhorrent in many ways, and professional relationships with him were largely dysfunctional, I was not aware of any sexual abuse by him – if I had been, I would have taken action,’ McArthur said in a written statement.

He said he was not aware of a Metropolitan Police investigation into Mr Al-Fayed over the alleged assault of a 15-year-old girl.

James McArthur, who was briefly Harrods chief executive in 2008, said that while Mohamed Al-Fayed’s conduct was ‘often abhorrent’, he did not personally witness sexual abuse

Five women allege that they were raped by Mohamed Al-Fayed, the late owner of Harrods, who has also been accused of attempted rape, sexual battery and sexual abuse of minors

‘I am absolutely horrified by the details of the allegations bravely brought to light,’ he said.

‘My heart goes out to Fayed’s victims, and I do hope very much that they will get the justice and closure that they are seeking.’

Harrods said an ‘ongoing internal review’ included ‘looking at whether any current staff were involved in any of the allegations either directly or indirectly’.

This came after a former employee told BBC News that a manager, who still works at the store, failed to investigate after she complained about Al-Fayed’s inappropriate behaviour.

Harrods said its internal review into possible staff involvement was supported by external counsel. 

Harrods has said it is conducting an internal review that will include ‘looking at whether any current staff were involved in any of the allegations either directly or indirectly’

Mohamed Al-Fayed, who acquired Harrods in 1985 and remained its owner until 2010, is seen attending an event in Paris, where he also had business interests, in December 2016

It added: ‘Harrods board has established a non-executive committee of the board to further consider the issues arising from the allegations.

‘Harrods is also in direct communication with the Metropolitan Police to ensure we are offering our assistance with any of their relevant inquiries.’

Harrods added on Monday that its ‘settlement process was designed in consultation with independent external counsel and experts in personal injury litigation. All claims settled to date and moving forwards will be based on the guidance of these external individuals to ensure swift and impartial outcomes for the victims.’