Jim Gamble Withdraws as Chair of UK Grooming Gang Inquiry Amid Political Tensions

Jim Gamble, a former Northern Ireland police officer and child protection expert, has withdrawn from contention to chair the UK's national grooming gang inquiry due to a toxic political atmosphere and a lack of confidence from some victims and survivors related to his policing background. Despite his extensive experience, including leading the Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre, Gamble cited political opportunism and vested interests influencing the appointment process, which he felt was detrimental to the victims. His withdrawal follows similar decisions by other candidates, leaving the government to seek new leadership for the inquiry. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has defended the inquiry, emphasizing its commitment to uncovering the truth and ensuring no injustice remains hidden, with Baroness Louise Casey supporting its work. Starmer also addressed the resignations from the victims and survivors panel, assuring that the door remains open for their return and that the inquiry's scope will not be watered down. The government continues to stress the importance of finding the best candidate to lead this sensitive investigation into one of the darkest moments in the UK's history.