Dr Lola Salem, an Oxford University academic and former partner of Michael Gove, is facing charges relating to the possession of indecent images of children. She denies the allegations and has pleaded not guilty, according to reporting published on 10 October 2026.
Salem is reported to be on bail, with a trial expected at Oxford Crown Court in 2027. Jam Radio has not independently confirmed the date of her plea or the precise court timetable.
Oriel College reportedly became aware of the proceedings in June and suspended Dr. Salem pending the outcome.
Separately, the former Conservative Cabinet minister and Salem were reported to have split in early just recently.
Gove, who is editor of The Spectator, has not been implicated in the alleged offences. There is also no established evidence that the criminal proceedings caused the couple’s separation.
Salem’s academic work has focused on music, opera and cultural policy. Salem has pleaded not guilty, and the case is scheduled to be heard in 2027.
