Calls for National Inquiry into Grooming Gangs

Liverpool Labour MP Dan Carden has urged the government to act on the issue of grooming gangs, criticizing his party for not heeding public calls for justice. His remarks come amidst a heated debate on whether to initiate a new national inquiry into these gangs, particularly following a failed Conservative amendment to a children’s well-being bill. Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK, echoed the need for an inquiry, emphasizing that past reviews have not adequately addressed the issue, particularly regarding gangs of Pakistani origin. Farage's comments have drawn scrutiny, as he has been reported for allegedly using parliamentary privilege to fundraise for an independent inquiry. In response to previous inquiries, Alexis Jay, who led a 2022 inquiry, stated that further investigations would be redundant since her report covered all necessary questions. The situation highlights a growing political pressure on Prime Minister Keir Starmer to address these serious allegations and the historical failures in safeguarding vulnerable children.