British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced a full national statutory inquiry into grooming gangs, following recommendations from Baroness Louise Casey’s audit into group-based child sexual abuse. The decision comes after months of political pressure and public debate surrounding the issue.
Background of the Grooming Gang Scandal
The scandal, which first came to light over a decade ago, revealed that gangs of mostly Pakistani men had groomed, trafficked, and sexually abused thousands of young white girls across England and Wales. The issue resurfaced in 2025 after U.S. billionaire Elon Musk criticized the British government for failing to act.
On Saturday, Musk responded to a post on X, saying he was “glad to hear this is happening”, referring to Starmer’s decision to launch the inquiry.
Casey’s Audit and Findings
In January 2025, Interior Minister Yvette Cooper commissioned Baroness Louise Casey to conduct a rapid audit of the scale and nature of gang-based exploitation in Britain.
According to Sky News, Casey’s report is expected to reveal that vulnerable white British girls were “institutionally ignored” by police and local authorities, who feared accusations of racism.
Initially, Casey believed a national inquiry was unnecessary, but after reviewing the evidence, she changed her stance, concluding that a statutory inquiry was essential.
Starmer’s Decision and Political Reactions
Speaking to reporters en route to the G7 summit in Canada, Starmer stated:
“She has come to the view that there should be a national inquiry on the basis of what she has seen. I have read every single word of her report, and I am going to accept her recommendation.”
The Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch criticized Starmer’s delayed response, stating:
“Keir Starmer doesn’t know what he thinks unless an official report has told him so. Many survivors of the grooming gangs will be relieved that this is finally happening. But they need a resolution soon, not in 10 years’ time.”
Inquiry Details and Next Steps
The statutory inquiry, which will be conducted under the Inquiries Act, will have the power to compel witnesses to provide evidence. Starmer acknowledged that setting up the inquiry “will take a bit of time”, but assured that it would be implemented in an orderly manner.
Baroness Casey’s review, initially scheduled for three months, faced delays but is expected to be published next week.
Conclusion
The national inquiry marks a significant shift in the UK government’s approach to child sexual exploitation cases. As preparations begin, survivors and advocacy groups will be watching closely to ensure justice is delivered.
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