In recent discussions surrounding the ongoing inquiries into grooming gangs across various UK towns, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has made it clear that plans for these local reviews will continue despite ongoing speculation and skepticism regarding their feasibility. Critics have raised concerns that the government has stalled or diluted these inquiries for political reasons, particularly regarding the demographics of the individuals involved. The controversy escalated with comments from Sir Trevor Phillips, the former chairman of the Equality and Human Rights Commission, who suggested that the government’s reluctance to reveal all inquiry locations stems from political maneuvering.
In January 2025, Cooper had announced a comprehensive three-month rapid review process coupled with plans for five local inquiries, with Oldham being the only location publicly confirmed so far. Despite the announcement, the absence of further details regarding the other towns has fueled accusations of political bias against the government. Cooper addressed these claims during her appearance on BBC’s Breakfast program, emphasizing that the priority should lie in bolstering police investigations rather than conducting solely inquiries.
Cooper’s assertion was made in response to questions posed by media representatives and critics, reinforcing her stance that the government is committed to delivering justice for victims through enhanced law enforcement action. She firmly rejected any implication of negative political impacts influencing the inquiry process. During a segment on BBC Radio 4’s Today show, Cooper stressed the misinformation surrounding the inquiries and clarified the current status of the investigations. Her assurance included plans for a local inquiry in Oldham, where a framework for similar inquiries is being developed.
Despite Cooper’s assertions, questions remain regarding the pace and direction of the local inquiries. Further complicating the issue, the barrister tasked with fostering these “victim-centered, locally-led” pilot inquiries, Tom Crowther, indicated that there has been little advancement since the initial announcement. During testimony to the Home Affairs Committee in early April, Crowther questioned the clarity of his role and the progress of his assignments. Concurrently, Conservative MP Katie Lam voiced concerns in the House of Commons over the sluggish pace of establishment for these inquiries, prompting calls for an update from the government.
In response to the inquiries’ delays, Safeguarding Minister Jess Phillips announced a new £5 million fund aimed at supporting locally-led efforts to tackle grooming gangs. This fund is designed to be flexible, accommodating independent local inquiries as well as targeted initiatives such as victims’ panels. Phillips also mentioned the formation of a new child protection authority—a recommendation stemming from the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse (IICSA)—alongside plans to double funding for national services assisting adult survivors of child sexual abuse.
Nevertheless, frustration among lawmakers remains palpable. Tory MP Robbie Moore expressed anger at the lack of substantial progress regarding the proposed local gang inquiries, stating that the government had evidently failed to deliver on its commitments. Survivor Lucia Rea shared her disillusionment, characterizing the government’s retreat from a broader scope of local inquiries as a significant betrayal of trust placed in them by survivors seeking justice.
Overall, the Home Office, while under scrutiny for its handling of the inquiries, has responded by asserting that its approach aims to effectively address issues of grooming gangs without succumbing to political pressures. This pivotal moment in UK politics underscores the intersection of justice, community safety, and the complex dynamics at play in governmental accountability. The near future will be vital, as the successful implementation of these inquiries could signify meaningful change for victims and potential reforms in handling similar cases.