Calls for National Inquiry into Grooming Gangs Expand Across UK Councils

The controversy surrounding grooming gangs in the UK has intensified, with multiple political figures calling for a national public inquiry. Reform UK's Lee Anderson criticized Labour councillor Tom Bailey for dismissing demands for an inquiry as a 'paedo conspiracy,' claiming this reflects Labour's reluctance to acknowledge the severity of the issue. Meanwhile, Labour MP Jo White emphasized the need for expanded local inquiries into grooming gangs, arguing that current investigations lack sufficient power to compel witnesses. Councillor Lewis Quigg and other Conservative members in Oldham have proposed a motion for the council to demand a national inquiry, citing previous failures by local authorities to protect children. The government's recent announcement of five local inquiries has sparked further debate, with calls for more robust measures to address the ongoing problem of child sexual exploitation. The movement for a comprehensive inquiry is gaining traction, fueled by public outcry and political pressure.