Bill Gates has rejected allegations of a close relationship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, using a speech in London to highlight the United Kingdom’s robust legal framework against human trafficking.
Speaking at a closed-door event on global philanthropy, the Microsoft co-founder addressed questions about his past meetings with Epstein, which have been scrutinised in recent years. Gates said he “had no business partnership or friendship” with the financier, who died in 2019 while awaiting trial on federal sex trafficking charges.
“I met him a few times for dinners, as did many others,” Gates said. “But the suggestion that I was involved in his criminal activities is false. The UK’s tough anti-trafficking laws are a model for how to hold perpetrators accountable.”
Gates’s remarks come as the US continues to grapple with the fallout from Epstein’s case, which implicated prominent figures in business, politics, and entertainment. The philanthropist has previously admitted to meeting Epstein but denied any wrongdoing.
Human rights groups have praised the UK’s Modern Slavery Act 2015, which introduced stricter penalties for traffickers and greater protections for victims. However, some critics argue enforcement remains inconsistent.
Gates’s appearance in London was part of a wider tour to promote global health initiatives, including malaria eradication and vaccine distribution. He did not take questions from reporters.
