Conservatives Propose Judge-Led National Inquiry to Replace Government's Delayed Grooming Gangs Investigation
The Conservative Party has proposed a judge-led national inquiry to replace the UK's delayed government inquiry into grooming gangs. This plan, developed with survivors and advocates, aims to examine ethnicity and religion in the scandal and includes a two-year time limit focusing on non-familial abuse. The proposed Independent Complaints and Compliments Group (ICCG) would coordinate targeted local investigations, holding powers to direct inquiries and summon witnesses.
Kemi Badenoch criticized the Labour Party, claiming it lacks the political courage to deliver the national inquiry. Labour responded by stating that the government is actively working to prepare a robust approach and is consulting with victims and survivors. However, the national inquiry has stalled since Keir Starmer announced plans in June, with no chair appointed more than six months after the announcement. The government warned in October that chair selection could take months after two leading candidates withdrew.
The inquiry has been marked by controversy, including the resignation of four women from the victim liaison panel and calls for Jess Phillips to resign. Five survivors have said they will only continue working with the inquiry if Phillips remains involved. Labour accused the Conservatives of failing to implement the recommendations of Alexis Jay, while the government affirmed its commitment to a full statutory national inquiry.
