UK Minister Faces Backlash Over 'Dog Whistle' Comments on Grooming Gangs

Labour MP and Leader of the House of Commons Lucy Powell faced widespread backlash after referring to the issue of grooming gangs as a 'dog whistle' during a BBC Radio 4 debate. Her remarks were condemned by survivors, political opponents, and former detective Maggie Oliver, who called them 'insensitive, insulting, callous and disgusting.' Shadow Tory whip Katie Lam and others demanded Powell apologize and clarify her stance, emphasizing the seriousness of child sexual exploitation. Powell later issued a public apology, stating she deeply regrets any impression that she does not take the issue seriously and clarified she was criticizing political point scoring, not minimizing the crimes. Despite her apology, many critics continue to call for her resignation, highlighting longstanding frustrations with how successive governments have addressed grooming gang scandals. The controversy underscores ongoing debates about political accountability and support for survivors of abuse in the UK.