In a significant policy shift, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced the launch of a comprehensive national inquiry into grooming gangs, responding to mounting public and political pressure. This decision marks a reversal from the government’s previous stance, which had resisted calls for a full public inquiry into the issue.
The inquiry, led by the National Crime Agency (NCA), aims to investigate historic cases of group-based child sexual abuse, with over 800 cases already revisited since January. The operation will unify regional police, exploitation teams, and national units to bring perpetrators to justice and improve future case handling. In parallel, a formal public inquiry has been launched with powers granted under the 2005 Inquiries Act. Chaired independently, it will examine the roles of councils, police, and officials in failing vulnerable victims, particularly where complaints were ignored or mishandled.
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper emphasized the aim is to achieve justice for ignored survivors, stating past inaction was “unforgivable.” While some, including Nigel Farage and Kemi Badenoch, have criticized Labour’s delay, the government asserts this strengthened response will confront a “longstanding culture of denial.” The national crackdown and inquiry are intended to deliver accountability, justice, and institutional reform.
The Grooming Gangs Taskforce, established in April 2023, has already made significant strides in addressing the issue. In its first year, the taskforce supported police forces in England and Wales to make over 550 arrests and helped protect more than 4,000 victims from sexual exploitation. The unit, led by the National Police Chiefs’ Council and supported by the NCA, is made up of specialist officers working with all 43 police forces in England and Wales. Additionally, over 400 officers have been specially trained by the taskforce, with more set to be mobilised over the coming months.
Despite these efforts, critics argue that the government’s response has been insufficient and delayed. The new inquiry and task force aim to address these concerns by providing a more coordinated and comprehensive approach to tackling grooming gangs and ensuring justice for victims.
