Kenova has released a statement following media reports of a meeting at Lambeth Palace on 2 November.
Former Chief Constable Jon Boutcher, who is leading the investigation, said: “I accepted an invitation to an event hosted by the Archbishop of Canterbury at Lambeth Palace last month as head of Operation Kenova.
“The invite came about due to the high regard people have expressed for Operation Kenova, most importantly by victims but also wider stakeholders.
“I have not declined any meeting since starting Operation Kenova and I am routinely asked to explain my approach and how delivering a legacy process can be achievable. I did not discuss Kenova cases.
“I have always been clear throughout, including at this meeting, that victims have been repeatedly let down and should be at the heart of any legacy discussions – it is they who have the moral authority in deciding what any future legacy framework should be.
“I will continue to explain the work of Operation Kenova to the many and diverse groups that seek to engage with me.
“However, I wish to make it clear that I will only attend discussions on legacy proposals if victims and/or their representative groups are in attendance. I continually advocate that victims should be the centre piece of any such discussions.”
More details on Kenova's approach to victims is available on our website.