At least five police forces are investigating child sex claims involving former Prime Minister Sir Edward Heath.
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The latest developments come as London police continue investigations into historical sexual abuse that may have involved prominent figures in the 1970s and 1980s.
It said its sources, described as privy to the investigation, had “confirmed that Forde was the person who had made the original allegations against Sir Edward”.
“We would encourage anyone who has been a victim of abuse or who has information to contact the dedicated NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000 where specialist staff are available to assist callers”.
Heath had already been named in connection with inquiries in London, Kent and Jersey. Support services were offered.
But a force spokesman added: “After a full assessment of the allegation there were no lines of enquiry that could proportionately be pursued”.
“There are many unanswered questions here”, former Conservative lawmaker Brian Binley, who once worked in Heath’s office, told BBC radio.
A statement from the States of Jersey police said Heath features as part of Operation Whistle, which was set up after the Jimmy Savile scandal and the Jersey Care inquiry.
Kent Police said it had received a report of a sexual assault against Sir Edward in East Kent in the 1960s.
Heath’s 50-year political career peaked when he served as Conservative prime minister from 1970 to 1974.
Detectives are making initial inquiries and will get a full account of the complainant’s story.
In Wiltshire, where Heath lived in his later years, the police force said officers had received “a number of calls” following appeals for information.
Wiltshire Police said today they have received “tens” of calls.
Hampshire police confirmed to the Isle of Wight County Press this morning (Wednesday) it was investigating allegations against Mr Heath, but declined to give any further details, including the nature of the alleged offences or when and where they took place.
“The allegations were referred to the IPCC by Wiltshire Police following allegations made by a retired senior officer”.
A Metropolitan Police spokesman said: “In April 2015 an allegation of rape was made to the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS)”.
“We welcome the investigation by Wiltshire Police, which we wholeheartedly believe will clear Sir Edward’s name and we will co-operate fully with the police”, the Sir Edward Heath Charitable Foundation said in a statement. “It’s easy to smear people not around”.
The allegations against Heath, who was unmarried and subject to lurid speculation about his private life, come amid a succession of claims about establishment figures sexually abusing children and the crimes being covered up.
Away from politics he was noted for his enthusiasm for sailing and classical music.
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British media on Wednesday said a prosecution was dropped in the 1990s against a woman who ran a brothel in the Wiltshire town of Salisbury, where Heath died in 2005 aged 89, because she had threatened to name him in court.
