The Prime Minister has announced a nationwide statutory investigation into grooming gangs in response to recommendations from Baroness Louise Casey’s audit concerning group-based child sexual abuse. Keir Starmer acknowledged these recommendations, including the need for a national survey in England and Wales, after previously facing criticism for hesitating to initiate such action.
The government had initially rejected calls for an inquiry, citing an ongoing seven-year investigation led by Professor Alexis Jay. However, the Prime Minister clarified that he was open to revisiting the issue after Casey modified her stance on the necessity of new research.
The investigation will allow local surveys, compelling evidence from witnesses, and is expected to reveal cultural drivers behind the abuse. Interior Secretary Yvette Cooper will present a statement about the report in Parliament, accompanied by plans for five government-supported local inquiries.
The issue gained heightened attention earlier this year, partly due to remarks by billionaire Elon Musk criticizing the Prime Minister’s lack of action. Leading figures from the Conservative Party welcomed the decision, seeing it as a necessary correction after months of calls for a national inquiry.
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