HOWZAT

Asked about the mounting costs of the investigation, he said that Frank Walker, Jersey's Chief Minister, had assured him that "whatever resources are necessary to carry out this investigation will be granted".

Mr Harper also said that police officers from Jersey have travelled to the UK "on numerous occasions" over the last six months to interview victims and witnesses, including people who have themselves since been convicted of paedophilia.

Police are excavating seven sites at the former children’s home at Haut de la Garenne in the east of the island in an abuse inquiry intensified by the discovery last Saturday of a child’s skull.

The excavation has revealed two bricked-up chambers underground chambers. Work has started to clear one and officers have found “significant” items which they said corroborate victims’ claims of being abused and locked in solitary confinement.

Police are also searching for a third chamber after being contacted by a former member of the care home staff and have started a new dig in a field behind the main building.

Victims have claimed the rooms were used for abuse and have described being raped, drugged and flogged.

Last night, a couple who were employed at the home from 1971 to 1984 said they had “nothing to hide” and would help police with their inquiries.

Tony and Morag Jordan, of Kirriemuir, in Angus, Scotland, worked as house parents at Haut de la Garenne. The couple released a statement through their lawyer, Ken Glass, of solicitors

Blackadders in Dundee, which read: “Tony and Morag Jordan were employed between 1971 and 1984 at Haut de la Garenne children’s home as house parents.

“The home at the time housed approximately 60 children with physical, emotional and mental difficulties. During their time, Mr and Mrs Jordan found their stay to be a rewarding experience in helping disadvantaged children to overcome their problems.

“They noticed nothing untoward in relation to the care of the children in their charge. They will be making contact with the authorities to offer any assistance that they might give to these investigations.

“They do no wish to say anything further at this time in case it might compromise the police investigations. They look forward to giving such assistance as they can to the police. They have nothing to hide and will co-operate fully with the authorities.”

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