The Norwegian equivalent of the KU discussed the issue of a Norwegian Epstein investigation on Tuesday, and according to Norwegian media, there is broad agreement that an investigation is needed. Work to launch an investigation has now begun.
"The seriousness of what has been revealed in recent weeks is very high and puts some previous events in a new light," says Per-Willy Amundsen of the Progress Party, who heads the Control and Constitutional Committee, according to NTB.
An investigation is "absolutely crucial" to maintaining trust in the Norwegian foreign service and diplomacy, he says.
Double tracks
In addition, a number of members of the committee want to see their own parallel investigation, in order to be able to look into issues themselves.
"The Control Committee has held hearings on smaller matters at lower levels than this appears to be. It is a completely natural path for us to move forward, so there will be double tracks going forward," says Deputy Chairman Sverre Myrli of the Labour Party.
The leaders of the Storting will discuss the issue on Wednesday, before the committee continues its work on Thursday. Among the remaining questions are who will lead the work, how large the mandate of the investigation should be, and when it should be completed.
Need answers
Julie Stuestøl from the environmental party MDG highlights Eva Joly, a Norwegian-French lawyer and former head of the EU's election monitors, as a candidate.
"Joly has shown time and again that she is not afraid to challenge power," Stuestøl says, according to NRK.
Jonas Gahr Støre himself led the Ministry of Foreign Affairs from 2005 to 2012 and says that many are shocked by what has emerged.
"Has there been sufficient control over this activity? That is what we need to know."
