The Scandal That Shook 70s Britain: Sex, Intrigue, and a Botched Hit
Politics has always been a breeding ground for intrigue and power plays, where personal lives can become dangerously exposed. History is filled with scandals that have toppled careers in an instant. One such case unfolded in 1970s Britain, involving Liberal Party leader Jeremy Thorpe, a male model, and a conspiracy that spiraled into a dramatic courtroom battle.
A Forbidden Affair and a Web of Silence
Jeremy Thorpe, a rising star in British politics, engaged in a relationship with Norman Scott, a male model. In an era when homosexuality was taboo and illegal, this affair was a closely guarded secret. Those within Thorpe’s inner circle were aware but maintained a code of silence, prioritizing reputation and self-preservation.
From Blackmail to a Botched Hit
When Scott threatened to reveal the relationship, a desperate attempt was made to silence him. Peter Bessell, a close associate of Thorpe, became involved, allegedly attempting to buy Scott’s silence. This escalated into a shocking plot: an attempt to arrange Scott’s murder. Andrew Newton, a compact-time criminal, was hired to carry out the hit, but the plan went disastrously wrong. Newton shot at Scott, but only managed to kill Scott’s dog.
Jeremy Thorpe (1929-2014) Photo: Getty Images
The Trial of the Century
The scandal broke in 1976 when Scott publicly accused Thorpe of involvement in the attempted murder. The ensuing trial captivated the nation. Thorpe and three co-defendants were accused of conspiracy to murder. The courtroom became a stage for revelations about the hidden lives of Britain’s elite.
A Not Guilty Verdict, a Tarnished Legacy
Despite the evidence presented, Thorpe was ultimately acquitted. However, the trial irrevocably damaged his reputation and ended his political career. The case exposed the hypocrisy and prejudices of the time, and the lengths to which powerful individuals would go to protect their secrets.
The Aftermath and Lasting Impact
Norman Scott largely disappeared from public view after the trial. Jeremy Thorpe lived out his life in relative obscurity, always maintaining his innocence. The scandal remains a cautionary tale about the dangers of secrets, the abuse of power, and the enduring consequences of choices made in the shadows.
FAQ
- What was the central accusation against Jeremy Thorpe? He was accused of conspiring to murder his former lover, Norman Scott.
- What role did Peter Bessell play in the scandal? Bessell acted as an intermediary, allegedly attempting to silence Scott with money and, arranging the attempted hit.
- What was the outcome of the trial? Thorpe was acquitted, but his political career was ruined.
