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The group who were reviewing previous examples of high profile individuals accused stated that there should be a no tolerance policy on police officers leaking information.
The report comes following a string of allegations of sexual abuse against high profile individuals such as Cliff Richard, with many denying any accusation. According to the report the public knowledge of the allegations against Cliff Richard, and the raid on his home was “inept” causing "irreparable damage" to his reputation.
Cliff Richard was cited as one example of the defamation of character prior to a charge with broadcaster Paul Gambaccini being the other. Gambaccini was named and kept on bail for 12 months before being told he would not be charged in relation to a historical sex abuse allegation.
The move resulted in an innocent man spending more than £200,000 to fight his case and led to the broadcaster being unable to work.
Bail Limit
The report proposed a 28-day bail limit, with any decision to extend it subject to a challenge by a senior officer, with the overall decision to re-bail reviewed every three months
Committee chairman Keith Vaz said: "The police only need to have reasonable suspicion that an offence has taken place to arrest someone.
"It is unacceptable that, even with little evidence, people can be kept on bail for months on end and then suddenly be told that no further action will be taken against them without providing any information as to why."
He added: "Suspects deserve to remain anonymous until charged.
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