The late Mohamed Al Fayed, the owner of Harrods, displayed "abhorrent" behavior, according to a former top executive of the department store, but he was "not aware" of any sexual assault.

In addition to several other women accusing Mr. Al Fayed of sexual misbehavior, five women have come forward to say they were raped by the 94-year-old.

James McArthur was chief executive for what he described as a “most unpleasant 10 months” in 2008.

In a written statement, he said: “While Fayed’s behaviour was often abhorrent in many ways, and professional relationships with him were largely dysfunctional, I was not aware of any sexual abuse by him – if I had been, I would have taken action.”

He said he was not aware of a Metropolitan Police investigation into Mr Al Fayed over the alleged assault of a 15-year-old girl, even though it was covered in the media at the time, which he says he doesn't recall.

“I am absolutely horrified by the details of the allegations bravely brought to light,” he said.

“My heart goes out to Fayed’s victims, and I do hope very much that they will get the justice and closure that they are seeking.”

Harrods has said “there is an ongoing internal review” that includes “looking at whether any current staff were involved in any of the allegations either directly or indirectly.”

This came after a former employee told BBC News that a manager, who still works at the store, failed to investigate after she complained about Mr Al Fayed’s inappropriate behaviour.

Harrods said that its internal review into possible staff involvement is supported by external counsel.

It added: “Harrods Board has established a non-executive committee of the Board to further consider the issues arising from the allegations.

“Harrods is also in direct communication with the Metropolitan Police to ensure we are offering our assistance with any of their relevant inquiries.”

Sources within Harrods have said the business has accepted vicarious liability for the conduct of Mr Al Fayed for the purpose of settling claims of alleged victims brought to its attention since 2023, reaching settlements with the vast majority.

Harrods added on Monday that its “settlement process was designed in consultation with independent external counsel and experts in personal injury litigation.

“All claims settled to date and moving forwards will be based on the guidance of these external individuals to ensure swift and impartial outcomes for the victims.”

After leaving Harrods, Mr McArthur was chief executive of luxury handbag maker Anya Hindmarch for four years, and then held a number of roles including chairman of Lulu Guinness, according to his LinkedIn profile. He now lists his occupation as "investor/director/adviser".