Lucy Powell Faces Outrage Over Grooming Gangs 'Dog Whistle' Comment

Labour MP Lucy Powell faced intense backlash after dismissing references to the UK grooming gangs scandal as a 'dog whistle' during a BBC Radio 4 debate, prompting criticism from political opponents and child protection advocates who accused her of minimizing child sexual abuse. Former detective Maggie Oliver labeled Powell's remarks as 'insensitive, insulting, callous and disgusting,' reflecting broader frustration with the perceived inaction of successive governments. Powell later clarified that she takes child exploitation seriously and apologized, stating her intent was to challenge political point-scoring rather than the issue itself. The controversy was heightened by the recent Channel 4 documentary 'Groomed: A National Scandal,' which spotlighted the stories of survivors and reignited calls for greater accountability. Political figures from multiple parties have demanded resignations and further inquiries, underscoring ongoing tensions over government responses to grooming gang cases. The incident has intensified scrutiny on politicians' handling of child exploitation and the adequacy of official investigations.