HAMPSHIRE Constabulary has confirmed it has become the fifth police force to investigate sexual abuse allegations against former Prime Minister Ted Heath.

The late Prime Minister became the most high-profile figure involved in historical claims after Wiltshire Police appealed for potential victims and witnesses to come forward on Monday.

Reports have since emerged that Sir Edward is being looked at as part of Operation Midland, a Scotland Yard inquiry into claims that a VIP paedophile ring operated in the 1970s and 1980s.

A Hampshire Constabulary statement said: “We are investigating allegations; we have nothing further to add at this stage.”

A man, now aged in his 60s, claimed he was raped at the age of 12 by the Conservative MP in 1961 but was branded a “liar and a fantasist” when he told social workers two months later.

This was reported to the Metropolitan Police, who interviewed the alleged victim but decided to take no further action.

The States of Jersey Police said the former Prime Minister features in Operation Whistle, an inquiry into alleged abuse on the Island, and Kent Police announced it had received a report of a sexual assault in the east of the county in the 1960s.

A spokesman said: “The victim has named Sir Edward Heath in connection with the allegation.

“Detectives are making initial inquires and will obtain a full account from the victim.”

Anyone with information can call Hampshire Constabulary on 101.