Starmer's UK Grooming Gangs Inquiry Faces Crisis Amid Survivor Resignations

The grooming gangs inquiry in the UK is facing a significant crisis marked by the resignation of four abuse survivors from the victims and survivors liaison panel, who accuse the government of sidelining their voices and mismanaging the investigation. Key figures, including senior social worker Annie Hudson, have withdrawn from leadership roles, citing concerns over the inquiry’s approach and the involvement of establishment insiders previously implicated in cover-ups. Survivors like Fiona Goddard and Ellie Reynolds have criticized the inquiry for its lack of transparency, toxic environment, and attempts to alter its scope, which they feel undermines victim voices. The government insists the inquiry will explicitly examine the ethnicity and religion of offenders and denies any plans to water down its scope. At Prime Minister’s Questions, Sir Keir Starmer faces pressure over the inquiry’s progress, alongside other issues such as Prince Andrew’s scandal and inflation, while Tory leader Kemi Badenoch defends the government’s handling amid political challenges. The inquiry’s delays and leadership turmoil have raised concerns among Labour MPs and campaigners, who are calling for a clear timetable and terms of reference to restore trust and ensure effective investigation.