Downing Street has called on police to examine allegations that former Birmingham City co-owner David Sullivan attempted to pressure aspiring young models into sexual acts. The 77-year-old businessman has firmly denied the claims, which were aired in a BBC Panorama investigation and a joint investigation with The Times newspaper.
Government response
A No.10 spokesman described the accounts from multiple women as "harrowing" and said it was appropriate for police to thoroughly assess them. The Metropolitan Police has already pledged to investigate. The Prime Minister's spokesman added that any victim of alleged sexual assault, regardless of how long ago it occurred, should contact the police and receive proper support.
Allegations detail
Seven women, who were in their late teens or early 20s at the time, came forward with claims relating to their pursuit of glamour modelling work at Sullivan's Daily and Sunday Sport newspapers. One woman, referred to as "Florence," said she felt coerced into having sex with Sullivan against her will. Another, Sacha Wall, alleged Sullivan told her she could receive similar help if she became one of his "special friends."
The Metropolitan Police confirmed it is investigating a report concerning the alleged taking of indecent images and sexual exploitation at locations in London and Essex during the 1980s, relating to one victim. Specialist detectives from the Met's Rape and Serious Sexual Offences team are leading the inquiry.
Sullivan's denial
In a statement, Sullivan said the allegations were false and sensationalised by the media. He acknowledged that after a lifetime in the adult industry, a small number of improper conduct claims were inevitable but categorically denied them. He described himself as a private man and rejected the media's portrayal of him.
West Ham departure
Sullivan stepped down as joint-chairman of West Ham United last weekend after being made aware of the impending publication of the allegations. The club confirmed his resignation as a director of both WH Holding Limited and West Ham United Football Club, noting that none of the allegations relate to the club or its operations.
The Independent Football Regulator stated it is in contact with West Ham and will use its statutory powers to seek urgent information from Sullivan regarding his suitability under the Owners, Directors and Senior Executives regime.
Broader context
A Department for Culture, Media and Sport spokesman said the allegations must be treated with the utmost seriousness and investigated by relevant authorities, with victims given necessary support. The government is working to stamp out harassment and abuse of power in the workplace.
Sullivan, who made his fortune in the pornography industry during the 1970s, was convicted in 1982 of living off immoral earnings and served 71 days in prison before a successful appeal. He and business partner David Gold took over West Ham in 2010 after selling Birmingham City, bringing Karren Brady as vice-chairman. Their tenure saw the club move from Upton Park to the Olympic Stadium in 2016. Gold died in 2023, and Brady left before the club's relegation from the Premier League. Sullivan's net worth was estimated at £1.2 billion in 2024.
