Labour scraps local grooming gang inquiries amid backlash

Labour has retracted its earlier commitment to establish five local inquiries into grooming gangs, a decision announced just before Parliament's recess, which has sparked widespread criticism from Conservative MPs and victims' advocates. The announcement, made by Safeguarding Minister Jess Phillips, shifts the £5 million fund towards a more flexible approach that allows local councils to decide how to address the issue, raising concerns about the adequacy of local inquiries. Tory MP Katie Lam criticized the decision as a political cover-up, asserting that local inquiries lack the authority to address systemic issues and calling for a national inquiry. Home Office representatives defended the move, insisting it allows for tailored responses to local needs rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. Critics argue this shift undermines the urgency required to confront the serious and widespread nature of grooming gang abuse. The change has ignited a renewed demand for accountability and comprehensive investigation into the failures of local authorities to protect vulnerable children.