Following the disturbing revelations about notorious paedophile Jimmy Savile, a number of high profile people in Britain have been linked to the sexual abuse of children.
Some celebrities have been brought before the courts while influential figures, including leading politicians who have died, have been named as being part of police investigations into abuse.
By far the most prominent name to emerge so far in relation to paedophile claims is that of former Conservative prime minister Edward Heath.
At least four police forces are investigating sex abuse allegations linked to the man who was in charge of the British government between 1970 and 1974 - a time of massive upheaval and bloodshed in Northern Ireland.
As Mr Heath's supporters have pointed out, he is no longer here to defend himself. But the fact that police are investigating claims of the most serious nature in connection with a man who attained the highest political office is a matter of major significance.
Even the suggestion that someone in a position of power was believed to be engaged in such vile activities raises serious questions about what exactly was known and who knew about his alleged behaviour.
Crucially, if claims were made about Mr Heath, were these accusations properly investigated and was the former PM questioned?
The public will want to know if criminal offences were covered up and powerful people protected at the expense of victims.
